THE GRAND RAPIDS 200
2021
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THE
MOST POWERFUL BUSINESS LEADERS IN WEST MICHIGAN
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to our wonderful clients for their many years of continued trust and support. Serving the Entire Grand Rapids Area Office Location: 460 Ada Drive SE, Suite 200 Ada, MI 49301 616-235-5777 or 888-777-0126
Our Grand Rapids Team
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Charles C. Zhang CFP®, MBA, MSFS, ChFC, CLU
#1 Financial Advisor in Michigan by both Barron’s and Forbes*
*As reported in Forbes February 11, 2021. Each state’s list, determined by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative and quantitative criteria, including: in-person interviews, industry experience, community involvement, client retention data, revenue trends, and other factors. As reported in Barron’s March 12, 2021. Rankings based on assets under management, revenue generated for advisors’ firms, regulatory record, quality of practices and other factors. See zhangfinancial.com/disclosure for full ranking criteria.
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Grand Rapids Business Journal |
GR200
Legacy Trust is proud to congratulate Tracey Hornbeck, Steve Heacock & Carl Erickson. We continue to be inspired by your leadership and dedication to our clients and community.
Tracey Hornbeck
Steve Heacock
Carl Erickson
President & CEO, Legacy Trust
Board Chair, Legacy Trust President & CEO, Grand Rapids Whitewater
Board Director, Legacy Trust Founder & Chairman, Atomic Object
legacygr.com
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The Grand Rapids 200: People The Grand Rapids 200: Entities Letter From The Editor By The Numbers
12 16 24 32 35 36 40 41 46 53 55 64 66 69 76 77 82 86 86 88 90 92 93
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BANKING & FINANCE BUSINESS SERVICES CAPITAL SOURCES CIVIC LEADERS CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION FOOD & BEVERAGE FOUNDATIONS & PHILANTHROPY HEALTH CARE INSURANCE LAW MANUFACTURING MEDIA NONPROFITS REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT RETAIL RETAIL – AUTOMOTIVE SPORTS TECHNOLOGY TRAVEL & TOURISM LIVING LEGENDS
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PEOPLE A
ARMBRUSTER, SARA...........................................................69 ALEXANDER, JAMON ............................................................. 77 AQUINO, GEORGE....................................................................92
B
BAAS, DARWIN “DAR”..........................................................35 BAKER, CHRIS..........................................................................86 BAKER, RICK .............................................................................24 BAYARD, GEORGE .................................................................... 12 BAYLOG, DAN .............................................................................76 BEAUCHAMP, NORMAN ......................................................41 BEHLER, STACIE ......................................................................53 BELL, LARRY .............................................................................46 BERG, JAMES ............................................................................48 BERKOVITZ, DR. KENNETH ...............................................55 BEUKEMA, PETER ...................................................................92 BIANCHI, FRANCO..................................................................70 BISSELL, MARK........................................................................70 BITELY, JOHN.............................................................................36 BITZER, MARC ...........................................................................70 BLACKMON, TASHA ..............................................................56 BLISS, ROSALYNN ................................................................35 BREUKER, MINA......................................................................56 BRINKS, JULIE...........................................................................76 BRONK, MEREDITH ...............................................................90
C
CAHILLANE, STEVE ................................................................70 CASALOU, ROBERT ................................................................56 CHAMBERLIN, JOE ................................................................88 CHAMBERLIN, LEW...............................................................94 CHANG, ANTHONY.................................................................56 CISNEROS, GUILLERMO ....................................................24 CLARK, JANE .............................................................................26 COHEN, SHANNON ...............................................................26 CONNOLLY, JEFFREY ............................................................64 CUMMINGS, SAM ...................................................................82 CUSTER, TODD .........................................................................36
D
D’ARIENZO, PETER.................................................................. 12 DECKER, TINA FREESE ........................................................58 DEL VECCHIO, GLENN .......................................................... 12 DEVOS, CHERI ..........................................................................54 DEVOS, DAN ..............................................................................82 DEVOS, DICK .............................................................................32 DEVOS, DOUG .............................................................................71 DEVOS, RICK .............................................................................. 12 DOWNING, STEVE.....................................................................71 DOZEMAN, DOUG....................................................................66
GARNER, ED ...............................................................................40 GENAUTIS, FLORIZA..............................................................26 GILMORE, GREG.......................................................................48 GOEI, BING ..................................................................................86 GOORHOUSE, MIKE ...............................................................54 GORTSEMA, TIM.......................................................................88 GRANGER, GARY......................................................................82 GREEN, BJORN.........................................................................36 GROGAN, DALE.........................................................................32 GROOTERS, ROBERT.............................................................84 GRUBER, TIM..............................................................................76 GUSWILER, MIKE ....................................................................90 GUZMAN, RAQUEL..................................................................68
H
HAAN, RONALD.......................................................................20 HAHN, DR. PETER...................................................................58 HARKEMA, GRACI...................................................................26 HEACOCK, STEVE ...................................................................40 HELMINSKI, JEFF ...................................................................34 HELMSTETTER, THOMAS....................................................66 HERBRUCK, GREG..................................................................48 HILL, SCOTT ...............................................................................68 HOOKER, DAVID .......................................................................13 HORNBECK, TRACEY ............................................................20 HUISMANN, RHONDA .........................................................20 HUIZENGA, J.C. ........................................................................44 HRNYAK, NICK ...........................................................................71
I
IRWIN, SHELLEY...................................................................... 77
J
JANDERNOA, MICHAEL.......................................................34 JBARA, STEVE ...........................................................................90 JELINSKI, SANDY....................................................................20 JIMENEZ, DEIRDRE ................................................................28 JOHNSON, HOLLY ..................................................................54 JOHNSON, MARK ...................................................................92 JONKER, AARON .....................................................................36 JONKER, ROBERT ...................................................................68
K
EASTBURG, MARK..................................................................58 EISLER, DAVE............................................................................44 ENGBERS, DAVE......................................................................48 ERICKSON, CARL....................................................................90
KAMINSKI, ROBERT..............................................................22 KEANE, JAMES .........................................................................94 KELLER, CHRISTINA ...............................................................71 KELLER, FRED ..........................................................................94 KELLY, BETH ..............................................................................28 KENNEDY, JOHN C. ................................................................72 KERSCHEN, JOHN..................................................................34 KESSLER, MURRAY ................................................................72 KEYES, RICK ..............................................................................86 KLOHS, BIRGIT .........................................................................94 KOETJE, NATE ............................................................................92 KRAUSE, KIM ............................................................................. 77 KRUEGER, BLAKE ....................................................................72
F
L
E
FERRIS, KATIE............................................................................16 FLYNN, KRISTA..........................................................................16 FREY, DAVID ..............................................................................93 FRIAR, MAX ................................................................................32 FRIIS-HANSEN, DANA .........................................................13
G
GADDY, SANDRA...................................................................... 77
LAJOYE-YOUNG, MICHELLE .............................................69 LAMBERT, JEFFREY ...............................................................28 LARSEN, CINDY.......................................................................28 LEESE, JOHN .............................................................................88 LOBDELL, JEFF .........................................................................50 LOBO, KEVIN ..............................................................................72 LOEKS, J.D. ...................................................................................13 LONDON, ADAM ......................................................................58
M
MACKEIGAN, RICH..................................................................13 MAHER, DIANE.........................................................................88 MANNS, BILL ............................................................................62 MANTELLA, PHILOMENA ...................................................44 MARASIGAN, ACE ...................................................................30 MCGRAW, MICK ........................................................................37 MCKINNEY, JAZZ......................................................................78 MEIJER, HANK ..........................................................................86 MEIJER, MARK..........................................................................62 MEIJER, PETER .........................................................................35 MISSAD, MATTHEW................................................................74 MITCHELL, DIEDRA................................................................84 MONTGOMERY, EDWARD ...................................................44 MULDER, CURT .........................................................................37
N
NARBER, SINDIA....................................................................30 NOVAKOSKI, MIKE ..................................................................37
O
O’CONNOR, JON ......................................................................50 OWEN, ANDI ...............................................................................74 OWENS, JENNIFER ................................................................40
P
PALUSKY, CHRIS.....................................................................78 PANT, MILIND ............................................................................74 PAPPAS, RICHARD ................................................................46 PAYNE, ERIC ..............................................................................68 PETERS, MARK..........................................................................74 PETRINI, JANIS ........................................................................30 PINK, BILL ..................................................................................46
R
REHKOPF, ROGER....................................................................37 RICHARDSON, TORY.............................................................93 RIDDLE, KENT ...........................................................................62 ROBERTSON, DALE.................................................................14 ROBINSON, JAMIEL ..............................................................30 ROBY, LEADRIANE .................................................................46 ROOKS, JONATHAN ...............................................................38 ROSENBACH, TOM.................................................................22
S
TINKER, BRUCE ........................................................................14 TUUK, MARY................................................................................16
V
VALDEZ, ANNEMARIE...........................................................78 VAN ANDEL, CAROL ...............................................................41 VAN ANDEL, DAVID ...............................................................64 VAN ANDEL, STEVE ................................................................76 VAN DYKE, MICHELLE ..........................................................78 VAN PUTTEN, MARK..............................................................55 VAN STRIEN, KYLE.................................................................52 VANDENBERG, TAMI .............................................................53 VANDERKAMP, BRETT .........................................................53 VANGESSEL, MIKE.................................................................39 VERWYS, RACHEL..................................................................80 VERWYS, RYAN........................................................................80 VISBEEN, WAYNE ...................................................................39
W
WASHINGTON, MARK...........................................................35 WATT, MITCHELL “MITCH” ..................................................39 WEAVER, PHILLIP ..................................................................80 WELCH, TOM..............................................................................22 WELSH, SEAN...........................................................................24 WERNER, LANCE .....................................................................16 WHEELER, JOHN .....................................................................39 WHITNEY, BRIDGET CLARK ..............................................80 WICKSTROM, BEN .................................................................40 WIERDA, SCOTT .......................................................................84 WIKANDER, MATTHEW ........................................................69 WILLIAMS, DANIEL................................................................55 WILLIAMS, GREG ....................................................................66 WINN, RICHARD .....................................................................93 WISINSKI-ROSELY, MARY ANNE .................................84 WOLFORD, ROBERT...............................................................69 WOLOWSKI, RICH ...................................................................53
Y
YAKLIN, SHELLEYE................................................................64 YSASI, MILINDA.......................................................................82
Z
ZHANG, CHARLES..................................................................24 ZUIDERVEEN, STEVE ............................................................64
SARSAM, TONY........................................................................50 SCHERMER JR., ROBERT ...................................................50 SCHOWALTER, TIM.................................................................38 SCHUMAKER, JEFF ................................................................38 SEMOLA, SALVATORE “SAL” ..............................................14 SEYFERTH, VIRGINIA “GINNY”........................................32 SIEGER, DIANA.........................................................................54 SMALL, DOUG ...........................................................................93 SMITH, CRAIG ...........................................................................52 SOWDERS, DALE.....................................................................62 SPAULDING, KRIS ..................................................................52 STEIN, MARTIN.........................................................................34 STEVENS, MIKE .......................................................................52 STOTTS, KEVIN ..........................................................................41 SYREWICZE, EMILY.................................................................14
T
TABBEN, RENEE ......................................................................22 TABRON, LA JUNE MONTGOMERY ................................55 THADANI, PRAVEEN..............................................................66 THELEN, RANDY .......................................................................41 THOMAS, BRADLEY...............................................................38
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ENTITIES A
ACRISURE LLC.........................................................................66 AHC+HOSPITALITY........................................................ 92, 93 AMWAY ...........................................................................71, 74, 76 ARTPRIZE ..................................................................................... 12 ASCENSION MICHIGAN .....................................................55 ASM GLOBAL .............................................................................13 ATOMIC OBJECT.......................................................................90 AUTOCAM MEDICAL...............................................................72 AUXO INVESTMENT PARTNERS ....................................34 AVANTI LAW GROUP .............................................................68
B
BAMF HEALTH..........................................................................56 BANK OF AMERICA ...............................................................22 BDO USA LLP.............................................................................16 BEENE GARTER LLP ..............................................................22 BELL’S BREWERY...................................................................46 BETHANY CHRISTIAN SERVICES ..................................78 BETTEN BAKER AUTOMOTIVE .........................................86 BISSELL INC. .............................................................................70 BIFMA ...........................................................................................28 BLACKFORD CAPITAL ..........................................................34 BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MICHIGAN ...................................................................64 BREWERY VIVANT .................................................................52 BROAD LEAF LOCAL BEER................................................52 BRONSON HEALTH ...............................................................62 BUTTERBALL FARMS ............................................................74
C
CALDER CAPITAL LLC..........................................................32 CASCADE ENGINEERING ............................................71, 94 CDV5 .............................................................................................54 CHARTER CAPITAL PARTNERS.......................................34 CHERRY HEALTH ....................................................................56 CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS ................................. 35, 68, 69 CROWE .........................................................................................20 CUSTER FAMILY OF COMPANIES..................................36 CWD REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT......................... 82, 84
D
DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY.................................................46 DK SECURITY ............................................................................30 DP FOX VENTURES ......................................................82, 88
E
EASTBROOK HOMES.............................................................37 EASTERN FLORAL ..................................................................86 ELZINGA & VOLKERS CONSTRUCTION ......................37 ERHARDT CONSTRUCTION ..............................................40 ESSENCE RESTAURANT GROUP ...................................48 EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS ........................................93 EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS ..........30
F
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY..............................................44 FEYEN ZYLSTRA ......................................................................92 FIFTH THIRD BANK ...............................................................22 FIRST STEPS KENT .................................................................78 FISHBECK...................................................................................38 FOUNDERS BREWING CO. ......................................48, 52 FOX MOTOR GROUP ..............................................................88 FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK..........................................................13 FREY FOUNDATION ...............................................................54
G
GENTEX...........................................................................................71 GERALD R. FORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY ...................................................93 GILMORE COLLECTION ......................................................48 GORDON FOOD SERVICE...................................................53 GRACI LLC...................................................................................26 GRAND ACTION 2.0................................................................41 GRAND ANGELS ......................................................................32 GRAND RAPIDS AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES......................................... 12 GRAND RAPIDS AREA BLACK BUSINESSES ........30 GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM .......................................13 GRAND RAPIDS ASIAN PACIFIC FOUNDATION ....30 GRAND RAPIDS BALLET ..................................................... 12 GRAND RAPIDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.......... 24 GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE ....................................14 GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE ..................46 GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION .........54 GRAND RAPIDS GOLD .........................................................90 GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS ...............................................88 GRAND RAPIDS OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN .....................................................................82 GRAND RAPIDS POLICE DEPT. ............................................ GRAND RAPIDS PRIDE CENTER.....................................78 GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM ..............................14 GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ............................46 GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY ...........................................16 GRAND RAPIDS WHITEWATER .......................................40 GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY............................44 GRANGER GROUP ..................................................................82 GUN LAKE CASINO .................................................................14
H
HARVEY AUTOMOTIVE.........................................................88 HAWORTH INC. ........................................................................70 HEART OF WEST MICHIGAN UNITED WAY ................78 HERBRUCK’S POULTRY RANCH....................................48 HERMAN MILLER ....................................................................74 HOLLAND HOME.....................................................................56 HOLLAND HOSPITAL............................................................62 HOPE NETWORK .....................................................................80 HR COLLABORATIVE ............................................................28 HUNTINGTON BANK ..............................................................16
I
INNER CITY CHRISTIAN FEDERATION.......................80
J
JOHN BALL ZOO....................................................................... 12
K
KELLOGG COMPANY..............................................................70 KENT COUNTY ........................................................35, 68, 69 KENT COUNTY DEPT. OF PUBLIC WORKS ..............35 KENT COUNTY HEALTH DEPT. ........................................58 KENT DISTRICT LIBRARY....................................................16 KIDS’ FOOD BASKET .............................................................80
L
LACKS ENTERPRISES ...........................................................71 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION...................................20 LAKESHORE ADVANTAGE ..................................................40 LAMBERT & CO. ......................................................................28 LEGACY TRUST .........................................................................20 LIFE EMS AMBULANCE ......................................................62
LIGHTHOUSE GROUP ...........................................................66 LONG ROAD DISTILLERS ..........................................50, 52
M
MACATAWA BANK...................................................................20 MANAGEMENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS ...................26 MARY FREE BED REHABILITATION HOSPITAL ......62 MEIJER FOUNDATION ..........................................................53 MEIJER INC. ......................................................................53, 86 MERCANTILE BANK OF MICHIGAN .............................22 MERITAGE HOSPITALITY GROUP ...................................50 MERRILL LYNCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT ..............22 METRO HEALTH UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HEALTH ..................58 MICHIGAN CAPITAL NETWORK ......................................32 MICHIGAN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER ............................................40 MICHIGAN SOFTWARE LABS ..........................................92 MICHIGAN WEST COAST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ......................................26 MILLER JOHNSON .................................................................69 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMAN MEDICINE ...........................41 MLIVE MEDIA GROUP ...........................................................76 MUSKEGON LAKESHORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ......................................28
N
NAI WISINSKI OF WEST MICHIGAN............................84 NATIONAL HERITAGE ACADEMIES ...............................44 NEW HOLLAND BREWING COMPANY .............................. NORTH OTTAWA COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEM.............................................................64
STEELCASE INC. ............................................................69, 94 STEELCASE FOUNDATION ................................................55 STRYKER ......................................................................................72 STUDIO C ......................................................................................13 SUBURBAN INNS ..................................................................92 SUNSET RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES AND SERVICES ...............................................................64
T
TALENT 2025 ............................................................................41 TEGNA ............................................................................................76 THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE HOLLAND/ZEELAND AREA .....................54 THE MEANWHILE ...................................................................53 THE PYRAMID SCHEME......................................................53 THE RIGHT PLACE .......................................................... 41, 94 THE WEGE FOUNDATION ....................................................55 TOWERPINKSTER ...................................................................36 TRIANGLE ASSOCIATES......................................................39 TRINITY HEALTH MICHIGAN ............................................56
U
UFP INDUSTRIES ...................................................................74 UNION BANCORP INC. ......................................................93 U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ............................35 U.S. DISTRICT COURT...........................................................68
V
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE.......................................................64 VARNUM LLP............................................................................68 VISBEEN ARCHITECTS........................................................39
W
REDWATER RESTAURANT GROUP ................................52 RESTAURANT PARTNERS INC. ......................................50 ROBERT GROOTERS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY.......................................84 ROCKFORD CONSTRUCTION ..........................................39
WAKESTREAM VENTURES................................................. 12 WARNER NORCROSS + JUDD.........................................66 WASÉYABEK DEVELOPMENT ..........................................84 WEST MICHIGAN HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ...................................... 24 WEST MICHIGAN SPORTS COMMISSION ...............90 WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS .......................................88 WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY .............................44 WGVU PUBLIC MEDIA .......................................................... 77 WHEELER DEVELOPMENT GROUP ..............................39 WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION ............................................70 WHITECAPS PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL CORPORATION .......................................94 WINDQUEST GROUP ............................................................32 W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION............................................55 WMCAT .......................................................................................... 77 WOLVERINE BUILDING GROUP .............................36, 37 WOLVERINE WORLDWIDE INC........................................72 WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER ...................................... 77 WOOD-TV/WOTV-TV/WXSP-TV .....................................76 WXMI .............................................................................................. 77 WZZM ............................................................................................76
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Z
O
OPEN SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES.................................90 OPERA GRAND RAPIDS.......................................................14 ORION CONSTRUCTION ......................................................37
P
PARKLAND PROPERTIES OF MICHIGAN..................38 PERRIGO COMPANY PLC....................................................72 PINE REST CHRISTIAN MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES .......................................................58 PIONEER CONSTRUCTION................................................38 PNC BANK..................................................................................24 PRIORITY HEALTH..................................................................66 PROGRESSIVE AE ..................................................................38
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SABLE HOMES.........................................................................36 SAFE HAVEN MINISTRIES ................................................80 SEYFERTH PR ...........................................................................32 SHANNON COHEN INC. .....................................................26 SMITH HAUGHEY RICE & ROEGGE PC .......................69 SPARTANNASH .......................................................................50 SPECTRUM HEALTH SYSTEM..........................................58 START GARDEN ......................................................................... 12
ZHANG FINANCIAL................................................................24
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42 NORTH PARTNERS.......................................................34
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
PUBLISHER: JOHN BALARDO ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: JASON HOSKO EDITORIAL EDITOR: TIM GORTSEMA DIGITAL EDITOR: EHREN WYNDER ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR: RACHEL WATSON STAFF REPORTERS: DANIELLE NELSON, RACHEL WATSON, CHELSEA CARTER
200 reasons (and more) to live here
DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR: LINDSAY RICHARDS ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: KEAGAN COOP EDITORIAL DESIGNERS: MICHAELA BUNGER, ROBIN VARGO
I
f you’re reading this, the chances are good you live in Grand Rapids or somewhere nearby. West Michigan has a lot to offer in terms of good employment, a thriving entertainment scene and quality education opportunities. Grand Rapids isn’t a “secret” anymore, with thousands of people arriving in the region since the last U.S. Census. But that’s OK. On the whole, we are a welcoming bunch. We care about our neighbors and the community. We realize that individual success leads to collective success, and we embrace that concept. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself why you live in Grand Rapids? It’s a big country and there are plenty of great places to live. Yet, you chose West Michigan. Why? I suspect it has a lot to do with the 200 people profiled in this magazine, even if you don’t know them personally or even by name. Are you here because you work for one of the region’s largest employers (Tina Freese Decker, Nick Hrnyak, Doug DeVos, Sara Armbruster)? Are you a fan of being close to top-notch health care (Kenneth Berkovitz, Peter Hahn, Mark Eastburg)? Maybe you’re drawn to the use of cutting-edge technology (Franco Bianchi, Andi Owen, Steve Downing, Meredith Bronk). Or maybe it has less to do with business and more to do with leisure. Do you like world-class art (Rick DeVos, David Hooker, Dana Friis-Hansen)? Do your tastes run more toward performance art (Bruce Tinker, Glenn Del Vecchio, Emilee Syrewicze, Mary Tuuk)? For those who are more low-key when it comes to nightlife choices, maybe it’s just dinner (James Berg) and a show (J.D. Loeks). You may not know these people by name, but the chances are good you know the businesses and organizations they represent. Now, I invite you to get to know a little bit more about them as human beings. They are more like you than you might imagine. They, too, are fans of Frederik Meijer Gardens (especially the concert series), John Ball Zoo, ArtPrize and the Grand River. They, too, have bucket lists (travel to Africa and Europe, ride in Air Force One, perform a modern jazz dance duet with Debbie Allen). They, too, have sad COVID-19 stories to share and funny workplace experiences to tell. The profiles of these 200 also show how connected they are to the region and, by extension, why they care about West Michigan. I would argue that these 200 people (and countless others just like them) are the reason you chose to live in West Michigan. In the end, living in West Michigan is more about the people than it is about cool things to see and do.
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Tim Gortsema Editor, Grand Rapids Business Journal tgortsema@geminipub.com
10 THE GRAND RAPIDS 200
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
GEORGE A. BAYARD III
Executive director Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives, Grand Rapids
George Bayard’s dream of owning an art gallery started at age 15 and his love for art carried him to this point, owning West Michigan’s oldest gallery devoted to artists of color for more than 30 years. He is spearheading a group to create the largest museum in West Michigan devoted to African American history, culture, learning and family. The group plans to open a new facility soon focusing on local African American history and culture. GRAAMA was the winner of the Albert Baxter Local History Award and was featured on the cover of the national magazine History News for its Grandma’s Voices Oral Histories series.
PETER D’ARIENZO
CEO John Ball Zoo, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Delaware (B) INSPIRATION: A TV ad would rant about “starving artists’ sale.” I was inspired not to be a starving artist so I expanded my artistic vision. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I waited on a customer and didn’t recognize him as the most famous local artist of the time, Andrew Wyeth. FAVORITE ATTRACTION: ArtPrize BUCKET LIST: Visit Africa PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Giancarlo Esposito
Peter D’Arienzo took over the reins of John Ball Zoo five years ago. Since then, the Zoo has created an annual economic impact of $40 million a year. There are nearly 2,000 animals that represent over 230 species at the zoo. With a passion for sustainability and community, his team led the design and construction of John Ball Zoo’s new front entry that features an inclusively designed pathway with the goal of achieving the Living Building Challenge commercial certification. His team also led the design and construction of a meerkat habitat that is SITES centered with a goal of achieving SITES’ Gold Certification. This certification will make John Ball Zoo the first zoo in the country to receive this and the first 2.0 v SITES in Michigan. Prior to joining John Ball Zoo, he was the director of operations for the Kansas City Zoo. He led a team of directors with responsibilities ranging from general operations to guest satisfaction. He also worked at Donaldson Company International, an air filter company, as a human resources manager and an environmental health and safety manager where he wrote and implemented an Environmental Management System (ISO 14001). EDUCATION: Rockhurst University (B), Aquinas College (M) FIRST JOB: Theater staff member at American Multi-Cinema
GLENN DEL VECCHIO Executive director Grand Rapids Ballet, Grand Rapids
Glenn Del Vecchio joined the Grand Rapids Ballet in 2009. Prior to his appointment, Del Vecchio moved to Michigan to serve as director of marketing for Universal Forest Products’ restaurant division, a group of 29 company-owned and franchised casual, quick-service and specialty-themed restaurants in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Michigan. For 11 years, Del Vecchio worked for Clear Channel Communications. He joined the ballet as a consultant while with his own marketing firm, Captus Creative. He serves as vice chair of the Michigan Dance Council and operations committee member of the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention Arena/Authority. In 2014, he received the Business Journal’s Newsmaker of the Year award in the arts and entertainment category for the world premiere of Grand Rapids Ballet’s “Nutcracker” production. The premiere capped the Grand Rapids Ballet’s multiyear, multimillion-dollar campaign to build out production, stabilize its financial picture and raise the organization’s profile.
RICK DEVOS
Founder ArtPrize/Start Garden/ Wakestream Ventures, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Millersville University (B) FIRST JOB: A farmers market stand selling specialty meats and cheeses LITTLE-KNOWN FACT: I followed the Grateful Dead around the East Coast and a couple of choice Midwest cities.
Rick DeVos is an entrepreneur and investor. In 2009, he created ArtPrize, a simple social experiment designed to see if artists and the public could engage each other in new ways. In 2012, he founded Start Garden, a unique venture seed fund that invests in early-stage companies and strives to build Michigan’s startup ecosystem. In 2016, Start Garden evolved to birth the for-profit Wakestream Ventures, an early-stage fund with investments ranging from $100,000 to $1.5 million. DeVos currently serves on the board of directors for ArtPrize, the Acton Institute and the West Michigan Aviation Academy Foundation. EDUCATION: Calvin University (B) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: I was terrified when we announced ArtPrize. We had no real idea of what to expect and neither did anyone else. All we had built was a registration form. But we took a leap, ran fast and the incredible West Michigan community stepped up and supported us from the very first day. FAVORITE HOBBIES: Aviation, photography, music and reading FAVORITE CHARITY: As the founder of ArtPrize and a member of its board, I continue to believe in its catalytic impact on the West Michigan community. I am also honored to serve on the boards of the Acton Institute and the West Michigan Aviation Academy Foundation.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
DANA FRIIS-HANSEN
Director, CEO Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids
Dana Friis-Hansen, director and CEO of the Grand Rapids Art Museum since July 2011, leads the museum’s staff of 50 in fulfilling its goal to serve as “a cultural beacon and a civic anchor.” Fostering the museum’s growth and impact through dynamic exhibitions, collections, learning initiatives and community collaborations, he helped shape a strategic plan that positions the 110-year-old institution as a 21st-century leader in the field by serving as community convener and a catalyst for creative thinking, with the mission “to connect people through art, creativity and design.”
DAVID HOOKER
President and CEO Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Carleton College (B) FIRST JOB: A six-month unpaid internship with the curator of the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. HIDDEN TALENT: I speak Japanese almost fluently. I lived in Japan for five years, working as the only foreigner in a Japanese office and had to learn Japanese to get along. I organized exhibitions and wrote articles about Asian artists for Western museums and partnered with Japanese museums and publications to introduce American artists there. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: In the past, I've really enjoyed exploring Asia, starting when I lived in Japan and went for vacations to Myanmar, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, Pakistan, India and Singapore.
J.D. LOEKS
President Studio C, Grand Rapids
J.D. Loeks is continuing the legacy of business ownership in his family. He is the president of Studio C, which is mostly known for its Celebration Cinema movie theaters. It is a family-owned entertainment company that has locations in western and central Michigan. He took over the role from his father, John Loeks, and he is looking to expand its reach. The company recently opened a location in downtown Grand Rapids, Studio Park, near Van Andel Arena. Alongside running Celebration Cinema, he is a principal of Olsen Loeks Development, which helped bring the Studio Park project to life. The 62,500-square-foot mixed-use facility has a music venue, a nine-screen movie theater, restaurants, retail, outdoor event space and parking.
David Hooker oversees one of the most popular tourist attractions in Michigan which features horticulture, sculpture and exhibitions from artists from around the world. In an average non-pandemic year, over 600,000 guests visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Meijer Gardens also hosts the popular Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens concert series which welcomes national touring artists each summer to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. Hooker is overseeing the final details of a four-year, $115 million expansion project that began in 2017. The expansion features new spaces designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects I Partners, updating and improving all aspects of the guest experience. The project will be finalized and dedicated in November 2021. Meijer Gardens was recently listed in the top 100 most visited museums in the world and top 30 most visited museums in the U.S. by The Art Newspaper. EDUCATION: Kenyon College (B), University of Michigan – Stephen M. Ross School of Business (M) PAST BOARDS: ArtPrize, Northpointe Lending, Grand Valley State University’s board of trustees and NPB Mortgage LLC
RICH MACKEIGAN
Regional general manager ASM Global, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), University of Denver (M, M) BOARDS: National Association of Theatre Owners of Michigan, Economic Club of Grand Rapids.
Rich MacKeigan is the head of the three most important ASM-owned entertainment venues in the city that attract people from near and far. He leads the operation of Van Andel Arena, DeVos Performance Hall and DeVos Place. The industry publication Venues Today gave MacKeigan a 2016 Hall of Headlines award in the bookings category. Billboard Magazine named him one of the 10 top arena managers for midsized venues in 2016 and 2017, and ranked him and the arena sixth worldwide and second in North America for mid-sized venues on the Arena Power Players list. MacKeigan has overall financial, marketing, booking and operational responsibility for the three Grand Rapids venues, and he oversees about 125 full- and part-time employees, which has doubled since he started. He said the success he has found in Grand Rapids comes from the community’s “significant progress coupled with continued momentum,” and that gave him opportunities to grow professionally, such as building the convention center, while remaining in the area. JOINED: then-SMG as the general manager in 1998 and became regional manager in 2007 NOTABLE: Named the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Distinguished Alumnus in 2018 and was a 40 Under 40 honoree in 2002, 2005 and 2007 FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I am Canadian.
13 THE GRAND RAPIDS 200
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
DALE ROBERTSON
President, CEO Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids
Prior to his work at the museum, Dale Robertson spent 19 years at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM). While there, he led the corporation’s 53-county West Michigan and Upper Peninsula sales operations division as its vice president. Prior to that, he was BCBS’s vice president of government affairs with responsibilities in Lansing and Washington D.C. He also previously worked as director of state legislative relations for the Greater Detroit Chamber of Commerce and in the Michigan State Senate as a legislative aide. Robertson currently sits on boards of the Grand Rapids Public Museum Foundation and Michigan Future Inc., among others.
SALVATORE “SAL” SEMOLA President, COO Gun Lake Casino, Wayland
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Thomas M. Cooley Law School (J.D.) HOBBIES: I like to exercise, particularly running with the RunGR club, and I like to read — a lot. BEST ADVICE: How you do something is as important, if not more important, than what you do. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: The humanities are the window into who we are as people — don’t neglect them. I would say double down on building an understanding of how the world works, what drives people and how societies have formed and behaved. PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Ted Danson. People tell me all the time I look like him.
EMILEE SYREWICZE Executive director Opera Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids
Opera Grand Rapids is the oldest opera company in Michigan and one of the top midsize opera companies in North America. Emilee Syrewicze, a Michigan native and classically trained pianist, took over the helm at Opera GR in 2019. She is the former executive director of Northwest Michigan Supportive Housing in Traverse City. She also was board vice president for the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan in Lansing and chair of the Greater Grand Traverse Area Continuum of Care. In 2015, Syrewicze became executive director of the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation in Charlotte, North Carolina. CRF’s mission is to advocate, educate and protect the Catawba-Wateree River Basin in North and South Carolina and is considered one of the most influential environmental organizations in the American south. CRF’s work leading the litigious efforts to clean up coal ash in the Carolinas has been featured on “60 Minutes” and CNN, among others.
Salvatore Semola has been active in the hospitality/gaming industry for over 40 years and has a broad range of experience in all consumer gaming market groups. For the past 20-plus years, he has held executive-level positions in operations and development of several major gaming/resort projects. As president and COO of Gun Lake Casino, he is responsible for the oversight of the casino and the long-term strategic direction for the master plan for the property. Semola has been recognized with the Eastern Division of the Casino Management Association’s Gaming Professional of the Year honor and the Industry Executive of the Year by UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration. EDUCATION: University of Nevada, Las Vegas (B) FIRST JOB: Dishwasher BEST ADVICE: No one can make you feel inferior without your permission. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I tried to sell my boss’s house while he was out of the country on vacation. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I sang with The Temptations in Las Vegas. FAVORITE BOOKS: Biographies TRAVEL DESTINATION: Italy ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: Totally immerse yourself in anything you choose to do. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Meijer Gardens
BRUCE TINKER
Executive director Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Alma College (B), Vermont Law School (J.D.) FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: My first interview for Opera Grand Rapids was over Skype and it was done on a Saturday morning after Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina. I was wearing business attire on top, but shorts underneath the table to hide the fact that I was sitting in a flooded office.
Executive Director Bruce Tinker is leading Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and School of Theatre Arts into its 100-year anniversary. Civic Theatre is one of the leading community theaters in the country, enjoying a state-of-the-art facility and serving more than 80,000 patrons, with 700 volunteers and 1,500 students each year. He oversees all the business functions of the theater including finances, community partnerships and the physical and facility needs of the theater, which includes capital improvements, stewardship of civic spaces, partnerships with vendors, contractors and others. Tinker also has directed more than 100 plays and musicals for community, professional and university theaters. Prior to Civic, Tinker was managing artistic director for Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre in Fargo, North Dakota. EDUCATION: University of Evansville (B), University of Nebraska (M) BEST ADVICE: John Wooden's Pyramid of Success features prominently. When you are born a Hoosier, all life is viewed through a basketball lens. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Beginning the recovery from the 2008 recession included reducing the theater's staff. We had to let very dedicated people go. FAVORITE MOVIE: “The Big Lebowski” BUCKET LIST: Travel to England
14 THE GRAND RAPIDS 200
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CONGRATULATIONS to our President and COO, Sal Semola, on being named one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Top 200 Business leaders.
We are inspired by your dedication to our Guests, Team Members, and community as we launch our new expansion!
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
MARY TUUK
President, CEO Grand Rapids Symphony, Grand Rapids
Mary Tuuk assumed leadership of Grand Rapids Symphony in January 2019 after a lengthy career in retail and finance. She served as senior vice president for properties and real estate, as well as chief compliance officer, for Meijer Inc. She also spent several years in executive positions with Fifth Third Bancorp, including a stint as West Michigan president. Now, she’s putting her lifelong interest in music — she’s a singer, organist, pianist and violinist — to work in the arts community. She also serves on the boards of UFP Industries Inc., United Bank of Michigan, Calvin University, Davenport University and the Economic Club of Grand Rapids.
BANKING & FINANCE
LANCE WERNER
Executive director Kent District Library, Comstock Park
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), Indiana University (M, JD) BEST ADVICE: Be willing to step through career doors that open up unexpectedly TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Without a doubt, serving as chief risk officer for Fifth Third Bancorp during the financial crisis. HIDDEN TALENT: I can recite every NCAA men's basketball team champion since 1980. FAVORITE MOVIE: “The Sound of Music”
EDUCATION: Northern Colorado University (B), Wayne State (M), Michigan State University (JD) FIRST JOB: Dish washer BEST ADVICE: Always do your best COVID EXPERIENCE: COVID has been tough both personally and professionally. However, it has been inspirational to watch both my home and work families rise above the circumstances and we are coming out the other end stronger and closer together. ADVICE TO YOUR 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Never give up and every day is a gift, full of new possibilities. FAVORITE CHARITY: Feeding America BUCKET LIST: Lake trout fishing at Stannard Rock
TRAVEL DESTINATION: Long weekends in New York City HOBBIES: I am eager to improve my cooking skills. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Engage in possibility thinking; there are no constraints. LOCAL ATTRACTION: The beach at Holland State Park BUCKET LIST: Attend the Summer Olympics PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Helen Hunt
KATIE FERRIS
Tax office managing partner BDO USA LLP, Grand Rapids
Katie Ferris is tax office managing partner for BDO West Michigan. In this role, Ferris manages roughly 100 tax professionals and is responsible for leading the tax practice in all areas, including setting strategic direction as well as managing operations. She serves clients in multiple industries, including manufacturing, distribution, technology, telecommunications and construction. Her primary focus has been on federal, state, and international tax planning, consulting, and compliance for closely held businesses and their owners.
Lance Werner is the executive director of the award-winning Kent District Library. He received his Juris Doctorate from Michigan State University College of Law and is a member of the Michigan State Bar. He received his master’s degree of Information Science from Wayne State University, where he also has been recognized as the Distinguished Alumni for the Information Science College, as well as the entire university. Werner has been recognized as the Michigan Librarian of the Year by the Michigan Library Association and the Librarian of the Year by the Library Journal. He also was recognized as a Mover and Shaker by the Library Journal (Change Agent). He lives in Rockford with his family and loves spending time with his family and being outdoors.
KRISTA FLYNN
Regional president Huntington Bank, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B, M) FIRST JOB: My very first job was working for my dad on our farm — working in the field, putting up hay, etc. I think that is how I learned about work ethic. My first job not working for family was at Subway as a high school student. FAVORITE QUOTE: "We spend so much time being afraid of failure, afraid of rejection. But regret is the thing we should fear most. Failure is an answer. Rejection is an answer. Regret is an eternal question you will never have the answer to." Trevor Noah FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Hawaii was fantastic. I also have enjoyed the countries in Europe that I've traveled thus far.
Krista Flynn has more than 25 years of experience in the banking industry. She was the commercial banking market manager at PNC Bank, and prior to that she held various positions at JPMorgan Chase and its predecessors, including roles in middle market, capital markets, automotive specialty group and credit. She assumes her new role following Huntington’s acquisition of TCF Bank, where she also served as regional president. Flynn is on the boards of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, The Right Place, Grand Action 2.0, Junior Achievement, West Michigan CEO Council and K-Connect. She also volunteers for and supports Kids’ Food Basket and the Association for Corporate Growth West Michigan. EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Walsh College (M) FIRST JOB: At 13, I worked in our church rectory office answering phones and sorting/recording donation envelopes four nights a week. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I ran into three executives in Rosa Parks Circle on a beautiful summer day after lunch. We chatted for a while and then headed back to work. On my walk back to the office, I got a text from one of them: “You have a big piece of lettuce stuck in your teeth.” SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I’m a closet nerd. I’ve seen the original “Star Wars” movie 71 times and can generally recite the lines along with the actors.
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THANK YOU LEW & JOE CHAMBERLIN TWO GENERATIONS OF
FUN! COMMUNITY! EXPERIENCES! Lew and Joe Chamberlin of West Michigan Whitecaps have been named to the prestigious list of the "GRAND RAPIDS 200" - the 200 most powerful and influential people in West Michigan for 2021.
WORKING TOGETHER
Congratulations to Jeff Schumaker and all our leaders on a consultancy that is stronger together. Our all-in-one services helped build stronger infrastructure and healthier businesses this year while we work as a trusted partner to our clients. Together, we drive progress in our communities.
fishbeck.com | info@fishbeck.com
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HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY, TONY!
Tony Sarsam, President and CEO
Congratulations on earning a spot on The Grand Rapids 200! Your commitment to our
PEOPLE FIRST
culture empowers us to deliver the ingredients for a better life.
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Best of Michigan is leading your Ascension hospital
Congratulations Kenneth Berkovitz, MD, for being recognized as a top 200 most powerful and influential person in West Michigan for 2021. Dr. Berkovitz leads Ascension Michigan doctors, nurses and care teams, and has been asking you, “How are you feeling today?” As a cardiologist and your neighbor, he’ll continue to make sure Michigan is getting the care you need. Now more than ever, Dr. Berkovitz has been reinforcing our commitment to deliver the compassionate, personalized care our communities and patients need.
Kenneth Berkovitz, MD Senior Vice President, Ascension Ministry Market Executive Ascension Michigan
Thank you to our Ascension Michigan care teams — and clinicians and caregivers everywhere — for your sacrifice and service.
Start a conversation with a doctor who listens at ascension.org Explore career opportunities at jobs.ascension.org
© Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.
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9/13/21 1:58 PM
BANKING & FINANCE
RONALD HAAN
President, CEO Macatawa Bank, Holland
Ronald Haan oversees West Michigan-based Macatawa Bank, which offers retail banking, commercial lending, e-commerce and wealth management services. The bank has 400 employees with 26 branches located in Kent, Ottawa and northern Allegan counties. Haan has been president and CEO since 2009, previously serving as executive vice president from 2005-09. Prior to September 2005, he was employed as an executive vice president of Fifth Third Bank. He also served as the president and COO of Ottawa Financial Corporation and AmeriBank, a position held since 1989. Prior to his employment with Fifth Third Bank, most of his experience was in locally owned and managed institutions in West Michigan. He returned to that space at Macatawa Bank. The bank now has more than $2 billion in assets.
TRACEY HORNBECK
President, CEO Legacy Trust, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B) PRIOR JOBS: Executive vice president, Fifth Third Bank (1989-2005); president and COO, AmeriBank (1989-2000) HAS SERVED: Barnabas Foundation, CRC Loan Fund Inc., Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services and Christian Schools International boards of directors BANK FOUNDED: In 1997
RHONDA HUISMANN Office managing partner Crowe, Grand Rapids
Rhonda Huismann has spent her entire accounting career at Crowe, taking the office managing partner role in January 2017. She is a tax services partner, and her specialty is providing compliance and consulting services for clients in the construction and real estate industries. Huismann also serves a large number of manufacturing, retail and technology clients in West Michigan, many with complex multinational operations. She has more than 23 years of experience working with general and specialty contractors, construction management firms, architectural and engineering firms, real estate developers and material suppliers.
As president and CEO of Legacy Trust, Tracey Hornbeck is responsible for all aspects of business, including strategic planning, profitability, employee and client engagement, and board and shareholder relations. Legacy Trust is an independent, locally owned, Michigan-chartered bank that specializes in providing highly customized investment and wealth management services to individuals, families, foundations and nonprofits in West Michigan. Before joining Legacy Trust, Hornbeck spent 20 years in banking, most recently serving in the roles of regional chief financial officer and senior vice president. Her achievements have earned her recognition as a Top Woman in Finance, Regional Thought Leader, YWCA Women of Achievement, Inforum Inner Circle Leader, and 40 Under40 by the Grand Rapids Business Journal, among other notable recognitions. EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BOARDS: John Ball Zoo chair, WMCAT board executive secretary, Grand Rapids Symphony board executive treasurer, Economic Club of Grand Rapids member, Michigan Bankers Association member, ACG mentor for women in finance, Michigan Women Forward committee member, Southeast YMCA past chair BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Don’t be obsessed with work-life balance. Have the courage to combine the two guilt-free.
SANDY JELINSKI
President, CEO Lake Michigan Credit Union, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Grand Valley State University (M) BOARDS: Grand Rapids Symphony, BBB Serving Western Michigan, Talent 2025, YWCA West Central Michigan, Grand Rapids Public Museum Gala Committee, The Right Place, Saint Mary's Foundation, GVSU Accounting Advisory, national Construction Financial Management Association Executive Committee INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou HIDDEN TALENT: Portrait photography HOBBY: Gardening and other outdoor activities GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTIONS: John Ball Zoo, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Blandford Nature Center
Since becoming president and CEO of Lake Michigan Credit Union in 2000, Sandy Jelinski has overseen asset growth from $400 million to over $8.5 billion with $8.3 billion in serviced mortgages, for a combined total of $16.8 billion. In 2018, Jelinski was the catalyst behind LMCU’s expansion in southwest Florida with the acquisition of Encore Bank’s six branches. LMCU’s presence there now has grown to 11 branches. The credit union has 55 branches total. LMCU has been named to top in-state financial institution rankings by Forbes. Plus, Money financial magazine has named LMCU’s Max Checking as the No. 1 checking account in America and Kiplinger’s named LMCU’s Prime Platinum credit card as the No. 1 credit card in the nation for those that carry a balance. LMCU last year provided over $500,000 in philanthropic support to the communities it serves. BOARDS: The Right Place, Grand Rapids Economic Club FIRST JOB: Pizza Hut LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Most people don't know that I love real estate. I have moved 30+ times TRAVEL DESTINATION: Naples, Florida DOWNTIME: Relaxing by the water — Lake Michigan, Gulf of Mexico or the pool GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Frederik Meijer Gardens – the outdoor music, butterflies and the Christmas trees
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Let’s build community together.
Thank you Bob Kaminski for investing in our community and helping to move us forward. Congratulations to you and all of the Grand Rapids 200 honorees.
mercbank.com
Congratulations,
SANDY JELINSKI President/CEO Lake Michigan Credit Union
For being recognized by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as one of the most powerful business leaders in the Banking and Finance category of the Grand Rapids 200.
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BANKING & FINANCE
ROBERT KAMINSKI
CEO Mercantile Bank of Michigan, Grand Rapids
Before Robert Kaminski earned the title of chief executive officer of the third largest Michigan-based bank by deposit market share, he held another title. Kaminski became an entrepreneur when he and five of his colleagues founded Mercantile Bank in 1997 after he started his banking career at First Michigan Bank. Throughout the bank’s 24 years, Kaminski has influenced its growing success. He became the president of the bank in 2007. In 2014, Mercantile Bank merged with Firstbank Corporation, a holding company for several banks in Michigan, including Keystone Community Bank and Ionia County National Bank. The merger of equals, at the time, catapulted Mercantile Bank to becoming the fourth-largest Michigan-based bank by deposit market share. In 2017, the West Michigan native assumed the role of president and CEO of its holding company, Mercantile Bank Corporation. The bank has 26 locations across Michigan.
TOM ROSENBACH Managing partner Beene Garter LLP, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Aquinas College (B, B) HOBBIES: Kayaking and running INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: My dad used to tell me, “Your first loss is your smallest loss — don’t let pride get in the way.” ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: That the next four years of their life will determine what they do the rest of their life. Work as hard as you can, keep your head down and keep your mouth closed. DOWNTIME: Our cottage south of St. Joe GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Leo’s Restaurant BUCKET LIST: To stay alive
EDUCATION: Aquinas College (B), Graduate School of Banking BOARDS: Heart of West Michigan United Way, city of Wyoming Retirement System Board, West Michigan Policy Forum and finance committee member of The Right Place HIDDEN TALENT: I am very good at Trivial Pursuit. HOBBIES: Studying world geography TRAVEL DESTINATION: Rome, Italy
RENEE TABBEN
Director, market executive; market president, Grand Rapids Merrill Lynch Wealth Management; Bank of America
After 19 years of leadership in the wealth management arena, Renee Tabben in 2016 was appointed to oversee Bank of America’s West Michigan footprint, which includes Barry, Kent, Montcalm and Ottawa counties. She works to connect Bank of America’s business lines to deliver integrated financial services to individuals, families and businesses. She also leads Bank of America’s corporate social responsibility work in the market, helping partners, people, communities and a broad client and customer base address a wide range of issues. She also still holds the market executive role for Merrill Lynch Wealth Management’s West Central Michigan region, through which she leads more than 130 financial advisers in the Grand Rapids, Portage, Muskegon, Ann Arbor, East Lansing, Saginaw and Traverse City offices. The Bank of America Corporation is a multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. EDUCATION: Butler University (B), Northwestern University (M) BOARDS: The Right Place executive committee; Grand Rapids Symphony FIRST (REAL) JOB: Musical theater performer in a summer stock theater in Maine. She performed in theaters across the country before a desire for a different pace in life led her to a career in finance in 1997.
Tom Rosenbach leads Beene Garter’s operations and strategic initiatives. He has been a partner with the firm since 1990 and has more than 35 years of public accounting experience. Rosenbach has knowledge in several industries but specializes in construction, real estate, manufacturing, and wholesale and distribution. He also lends his expertise to clients in financial reporting and analysis, mergers and acquisitions, fraud and forensic accounting, and litigation support. Rosenbach currently serves on the board of Macatawa Bank and is a former board member with Moore Stephens North America, Moore Stephens International, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, ABC Western Michigan and Catholic Social Services.
PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.
TOM WELCH
Region president Fifth Third Bank, Grand Rapids
Tom Welch is responsible for the growth and strategic alignment of Fifth Third’s commercial, wealth and asset management and consumer businesses. He has more than 31 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 29 at Fifth Third. Most recently, he led the bank’s aggressive expansion plans throughout St. Louis and Missouri. He also has held various leadership positions within the bank’s Cincinnati, southern Indiana and St. Louis regions, including previously serving as regional president of Fifth Third Bank (St. Louis). Welch serves on the boards of Grand Action 2.0 (co-chair), The Right Place, Grand Valley State University Foundation, Grand Rapids Symphony, Heart of West Michigan United Way, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, John Ball Zoo, Business Leaders for Michigan and Aquinas College. He also is on the leadership council for Talent 2025. EDUCATION: Northwestern University (B, M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Everyone you meet in life has a problem you don’t know about, so be kind. Every talent you have is a gift, so be grateful. Kindness and gratitude, alone, are omnipotent.” My dad FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I have 10 children and have lived in 10 different cities in my lifetime. FAVORITE BOOK: “The Wealth of Nations” by Adam Smith
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When you spend your days making a difference, people notice. Huntington congratulates Krista Flynn for being named one of the most powerful and influential business leaders in West Michigan. Thank you for inspiring us to look out for each other, our customers, and our communities, every day.
Member FDIC. ®, Huntington® and Huntington. Welcome.® are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2021 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.
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BANKING & FINANCE
SEAN WELSH
Regional president PNC Bank, Grand Rapids
Sean Welsh began his banking career in 1986 with American National Bank & Trust Company of Chicago. After completing his credit training, he managed a large portfolio of loans to middle-market companies located throughout the Midwest. In 1991, he joined National City’s predecessor bank, First of America. Welsh held several line and management positions with First of America, including vice president and group manager corporate banking, and vice president and group manager investment real estate and corporate finance. Prior to his role with PNC in West Michigan, he served as senior vice president and division manager for National City’s middle-market banking group in Chicago and northern Illinois. Welsh is board chair of The Right Place and Talent 2025 and also serves on the boards of Spectrum Health System, the YMCA and Southwest Michigan First.
BUSINESS SERVICES
CHARLES ZHANG
CEO Zhang Financial, Portage
EDUCATION: Northwestern University (M), Western Michigan University (M) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Managing clients’ expectations. It is always a challenge to truly establish the right expectations for our clients’ investments and retirement. We need to be able to be honest and help them overcome unrealistic expectations for their finances.
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) FIRST JOB: Paper route BEST ADVICE: Follow your passion HOBBIES: Golf, travel, spending time with family FAVORITE BOOK: “Team of Rivals” by Doris Kearns-Goodwin GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Meijer Gardens FAVORITE CHARITY: YMCA ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Work hard and good things will happen
RICK BAKER
President, CEO Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, Grand Rapids
Under Rick Baker’s leadership, the chamber has developed a strategic focus on three key areas: being a champion for an inclusive and magnetic community, accelerating business growth through cutting edge programming and providing a positive business climate by aggressively advocating for business. Baker began his career in chamber management in May 1988. He has held executive positions with chambers in Iowa, Illinois and Minnesota, prior to assuming his current position in April 2011. He is a 1995 graduate of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Organization Management at the University of Colorado.
Charles Zhang is recognized nationwide for his expertise in the financial planning industry. In 2020, he was ranked No. 2 on Barron’s list of the nation’s Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors. He also was ranked No. 7 in the nation on Forbes’ list of America’s Top Wealth Advisors for 2020. On both lists, Zhang was the highest ranked NAPFA-registered fee-only financial adviser. In 2021, Zhang was ranked the No. 1 financial adviser in Michigan by Barron’s for the ninth consecutive year and by Forbes for every year since the inception of its state rankings. He also is a COUR member for Harvard University and a member of the Economics Advisory Council for Columbia University.
HIDDEN TALENT: I am a third-degree black belt in taekwondo, and I am a decent ballroom dancer. HOBBIES: Family time, reading, traveling, tai chi FAVORITE BOOK, MOVIE, TV SHOW: Favorite books are “A Random Walk Down Wallstreet” and “Flash Boys.” My favorite TV show is “Billions.” “Lion King” is my all-time favorite movie.
GUILLERMO CISNEROS President, CEO West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Upper Iowa University (B) BOARDS: The Economic Club, The Right Place, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., Grand Valley Metro Council, Experience Grand Rapids, The Rapid, West Michigan Policy Forum FIRST JOB: At age 12, a laborer at a southeast Minnesota sawmill FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: After giving a presentation to a county board in Iowa, I forgot the small lectern was raised and I missed the step, falling to the floor and taking the Iowa and U.S. flags that flanked the podium to the floor with me. Not quite the way I had hoped to exit the stage. HIDDEN TALENT: A certified captain in the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marines
After three years at the helm of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Guillermo Cisneros has grown membership numbers, event turnout and more. In 2018, he launched an initiative that focuses on economic development for Latino business owners, and he also launched an initiative that will focus on workforce development and talent acquisition by connecting Latino college students and local employers. He sits on the following boards for the city of Grand Rapids: Economic Development Corporation; Brownfield Redevelopment Authority; To College, Through College; and Grand Rapids Racial Equity Initiative. He also sits on the Workforce Development Advisory Board for Talent 2025, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids board and the Diversity Council for Varnum. EDUCATION: Autonomous University of Campeche, Mexico (B), Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain (M) FIRST JOB: I was a bookkeeper when I was 19 years old in my hometown of Campeche, Mexico. BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED: My dad would always tell me, “Keep moving forward no matter the obstacles and barriers.” TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Moving to the U.S. and not speaking the language nor being able to find my career path for several years. HIDDEN TALENT: I like poetry, and I have memorized several poems and speeches since I was a boy. This is how I won my wife over.
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Congratulations to
ROBERT D. WOLFORD Representing West Michigan
Congratulations to our Managing Member Bob Wolford for being recognized as one of The Grand Rapids 200 for the third consecutive year. Bob has made a significant impact on our community through his service and as a champion for diversity, equity and inclusion, children and creating opportunities for all… •
As Secretary/Legal Counsel of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids As a member of The Right Place and Meijer Gardens Boards of Directors and the Talent 2025 CEO Council As a Fellow of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity As the President of the East Grand Rapids School Board As a dad, coach, friend and community leader.
• • • •
We would also like to thank and congratulate all of our clients and friends who were also selected to The Grand Rapids 200 for all you do to make our community great! Grand Rapids 616.831.1700
Kalamazoo 269.226.2950
Detroit 248.258.2850
millerjohnson.com
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BUSINESS SERVICES
JANE CLARK
President Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce
Under Jane Clark’s leadership, the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce is nationally recognized as an industry leader that is impacting the community for the greater good. During the 2020 COVID-19 shutdown, Clark activated the resources of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The foundation partnered with the Now for the Next fund of the Holland and Zeeland Community Foundation to establish a Downtown Relief Fund. This program awarded $150,000 in relief grants to downtown Holland and Zeeland businesses adversely affected by the pandemic. She currently serves as vice chair of the ACCE Foundation Board of Directors. She is a former member of the ACCE board and the MACP board and has been recognized by MACP as the Chamber Executive of the Year. She also is a member of the Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100, a program of the U.S. Chamber.
SHANNON COHEN Founder, CEO Shannon Cohen Inc.
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B, M) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Transitioning to wearing my natural hair versus straightening my hair. I cut off the relaxed portions to begin growing my natural tresses, so my hair was in a short Afro. The day after, I interviewed for a senior management position at a local organization. The woman who escorted me to the interview room did a double take and said, “I hope you are not going to wear your hair like that every day.” I ended up landing the role, and that woman became one of my direct reports. HIDDEN TALENT: My voice is very soothing. I have been invited to do some voiceover projects.
EDUCATION: Indiana University (B) FIRST JOB: Sales associate at the Lerner clothing store chain in Greenwood (Indiana) Park Mall while in high school. BUCKET LIST: My husband Robert and I had to cancel our trip to Monaco and the south of France because of COVID. I hope we can reschedule as soon as it is safe.
FLORIZA GENAUTIS CEO Management Business Solutions
Born in the Philippines, Floriza Genautis has worked her way up the ladder of success to achieve her American dream of starting her staffing firm. After earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics with an emphasis in computer application in her native country, Genautis came to the United States and started her first job at KFC, mopping floors. Although she started out working a menial job, since then, she has amassed over 25 years of experience in the professional staffing industry, including over 15 years in the accounting, finance and human resources industry. Before moving to Grand Rapids and creating MBS, she recruited for technology companies in Silicon Valley, working with companies such as Hewlett Packard, Hitachi Data Systems, Applied Materials, McAfee and Nike. Now with her own firm, she helps her clients find potential employees for accounting, finance, human resource, information technology, sales and marketing, nonprofit, government and engineering positions.
Shannon Cohen’s firm specializes in developing custom emotional intelligence, equity and wellness content for organizations including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, Steelcase, United Way, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Amway, the city of Grand Rapids, Gentex, Atomic Object, Mercantile Bank and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. She is founder and host of The Rockstar Woman Brunch; author of the book, “Tough Skin, Soft Heart” and owner-operator of a greeting card company and podcast by the same name; a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network alumnus; co-founder of Sisters Who Lead, an affinity movement designed to advance the well-being and career mobility of women of color; and much more.
GRACI HARKEMA
Owner/diversity and inclusion consultant/speaker Graci LLC
EDUCATION: De La Salle University, Philippines (B) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE FACED OR LESSON LEARNED: Founding and starting Management Business Solutions (MBS) in 2006 and the recession hit just shortly after opening the business. It was especially challenging since we are a staffing firm and no one is hiring.
Graci Harkema specializes in diversity, equity, inclusion, implicit bias, identity and belonging training and talent management across industries, including Fortune 500 companies, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. She is dedicated to driving inclusion and integrating diversity to ensure an open and safe work environment. Harkema helps create and evolve strategies to attract and engage a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to empowering employees to perform to their potential as their true selves in the workplace. She partners with clients to help them achieve successful business results by maximizing talent and inclusion strategies. Harkema was recognized as a 40 Under 40 Business Leader by Grand Rapids Business Journal in 2015 and 2020 and was the keynote speaker for the Business Journal’s 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan event in 2020. EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B) PHILANTHROPY: Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Our LGBTQ Fund Leadership Circle, Heart for Central Africa donor FIRST JOB: GAP sales associate at RiverTown Crossings in Grandville LITTLE-KNOWN FACT: I was the first female in the history of Grandville High School to be recruited to play men’s varsity football. We made it to the playoffs, and our team photo was on the wall at a local Applebee’s for years.
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CONGRATULATIONS! We would like to congratulate all ‘Grand Rapids 200’ honorees for 2021, including our newly appointed CEO, Sindia Narber.
SINDIA NARBER Chief Executive Officer
We look forward to Sindia’s continued success at the helm of DK Security during this new chapter of growth. dksecurity.com | (616) 656-0123
Inspiring Confidence. LIGHTHOUSE CONGRATULATES
TOM HELMSTETTER
on another recognition as a Grand Rapids Top 200. The team at Lighthouse is thankful for your innovative vision and faithful leadership in serving Michigan’s insurance needs.
Live Confidently. www.lighthousegroup.com
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BUSINESS SERVICES
DEIRDRE JIMENEZ President, CEO BIFMA
Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) in 2020 chose Deirdre Jimenez as its first president and CEO. Jimenez is an architect and interior designer with over 25 years of leadership experience serving in executive and ownership roles in corporate real estate and national architecture and engineering consulting firms. She is responsible for leading BIFMA and partnering with its board, membership and staff by “connecting and advancing the industry’s common interests through a period of disruption and growth.” Jimenez is a registered architect in several states and earned the NCIDQ certification and numerous professional industry awards. To support buying confidence, BIFMA launched a compliance program in early 2021 that provides customers and specifiers with a database of products that meet quality, safety and sustainability standards developed for the furniture industry.
BETH KELLY
President, visionary HR Collaborative, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Lawrence Technological University (B, B) BOARDS: Advisory boards for Ferris State University School of Facility Management and Lawrence Tech School of Architecture and Design, chair of the restoration committee of the Frank Lloyd Wright Affleck House.
JEFFREY LAMBERT
Founder, CEO Lambert & Co., Grand Rapids
The basement was where it all started for Jeffrey Lambert in 1998, but over the next 23 years, the co-founder has grown the public relations firm from a belowground business to a top 50 agency in the United States with offices in Grand Rapids, Lansing, Detroit and New York City. The company has over 100 clients, including several publicly traded and privately held clients based in 20 states and six countries. Some of the growth of the company can be credited to six acquisitions including John Bailey & Associates in Detroit, Sterling Corporation in Lansing and Owen Blicksilver PR in New York City.
Beth Kelly is on a mission to make work better. As founder and president of HR Collaborative, she is the visionary behind a team of experts who fill in the HR gaps that organizations have today and who help them build sustainable people practices for tomorrow. HR Collaborative works with small to mid-size organizations across the Midwest and across a variety of industries, including education, health care, local government, manufacturing, nonprofits, professional services and real estate. She started her career as Cascade Engineering’s first HR professional and saw the company grow from 150 employees to more than 1,000. In her next role, she served as the senior vice president of HR for D&W Food Centers. She then ventured out on her own, working with numerous organizations for more than 20 years. Today, the media frequently interviews Kelly for her HR thought leadership, and she has presented at multiple national conferences. In 2021 and 2019, Inc. recognized HR Collaborative as one of the 5000 fastest-growing private companies in the nation. EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Michigan State University (M) FIRST JOB: Intern for Ralph Nader’s Public Interest Research Group in Washington, D.C. HIDDEN TALENT: I can recite the 50 states in alphabetical order
CINDY LARSEN
President Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BOARDS: YMCA, Downtown Detroit Partnership, Armed Forces Thanksgiving event, Campaign Cabinet for the Michigan State College of Communications Arts & Sciences, Young Presidents’ Organization and Michigan State Varsity “S” Club INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Fair is for children.” Winston Churchill TOUGHEST LESSON LEARNED: It's more important to be respected than to be liked but harder to achieve. I've often failed as a leader by getting these priorities reversed. HOBBIES: Playing beach volleyball with people half my age and competing in sports of all kinds FAVORITE TV SHOW: “America's Got Talent” TRAVEL DESTINATION: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cindy Larsen is devoted to economic development, especially in Muskegon. She has been instrumental in reinventing a waterfront downtown, promoting Muskegon lakes and beaches. Larsen is using her role, one that she has held for 22 years, to oversee an advocacy and community development organization with over 1,250 member businesses. The organization has contributed more than $1 billion in investment in public spaces, new buildings and renovations in and around Muskegon. Several of the projects have been completed with more in development. Organizations that have contributed to the cause include Fifth Third Bank, Lakeshore Art Festival, Mercy Health, Lakeshore Museum Center and Muskegon Community College. The chamber has won numerous state and national awards for overall programing and communications. EDUCATION: Central Michigan University (B) FIRST JOB: Working in my father's bakery FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: We took a staff photo where most people were seated or kneeling on the ground with everyone smiling. The photographer then snapped a photo immediately after when everyone was holding their backs or knees and visibly in pain. TRAVEL DESTINATION: I love islands, northern California, places with water, any "Pure Michigan" place in the summer. FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
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GRAND RAPIDS
HONOREE Congratulations and thank you to all those who are actively working to make our community and our world better.
DICK DEVOS Chairman, Windquest Group
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BUSINESS SERVICES
ACE MARASIGAN
Founder, CEO GR Asian Pacific Foundation, Grand Rapids
JANIS PETRINI
Owner Express Employment Professionals, Wyoming
Ace Marasigan, a Realtor with RE/Max Grand Rapids, emigrated from Manila, Philippines, and has made Grand Rapids his home since 1993. He resides in Grand Rapids with his wife and their son. Marasigan was inspired to create the first Grand Rapids Asian Festival in 2017, an annual event that brings together West Michigan Asian-Pacific groups in a cultural celebration. He describes himself as a “connector” who devotes much time to his family, hometown and the West Michigan business community. He also is an event catalyst and part-time DJ. In recent years, he retired from a long tenure in banking and now has moved into the real estate industry.
SINDIA NARBER
CEO DK Security, Kentwood
Sindia Narber followed a lengthy path to become CEO of DK Security, where she now oversees all administrative, operational and financial functions for the state’s largest locally owned security company. She joined DK Security in 2003 as a human resources assistant. She went on to become human resources manager, director of HR/administration, senior vice president of HR/operations, SVP/COO and, in 2021, CEO. Narber also serves on the board of Silent Observer and is a member of several other professional organizations. Started in 1995 by two former federal law enforcement executives, DK Security now employs more than 2,000 people in four offices throughout the state.
EDUCATION: Grand Rapids Community College BEST ADVICE: I learned that saying yes to opportunities opens many doors and great possibilities COVID EXPERIENCE: I stayed home with my son, blogged for a news station, worked as a grant consultant to help small businesses and worked as a DJ. FAVORITE DESTINATION: Frankenmuth, because my wife loves Christmas so much and I get to enjoy seeing her face light up. ADVICE TO YOUR 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Buy bitcoins BUCKET LIST: Help my wife realize her Filipino food truck/trailer dream of making a living creating food, sharing culture and growing old working together.
TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Dealing with a pandemic and running a business is the toughest challenge I have faced recently. We continue to learn each day how to handle various COVID-related challenges and as a team, we all work together to overcome those challenges.
Janis Petrini opened her franchise of Express Employment Professionals in 1996 and has grown it into a top 10 producer out of 800 worldwide and a perennial Circle of Excellence member, an incentive program for sales. She invests in the community by allowing employees to support causes, by building the Express Pros brand with multiple community partners and by giving back with volunteer work and fundraising. The local Express Pros office has five divisions: professional; administrative; advanced manufacturing and skilled trades; light industrial; and training. In 2021, she launched Specialized Recruiting Group, a standalone company that is specifically focused on executive search and professional placement with a goal to strategically tap into new talent pools and further increase the company’s level of service for clients and professional candidates. Express Pros has employed more than 20,000 people and helped over 1,000 companies since opening in Wyoming.
Jamiel Robinson is a serial entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses (GRABB). GRABB is an economic development enterprise that focuses on fostering an economy that supports the revitalization of the Black community and expands opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in the Metro Grand Rapids area by promoting economic empowerment and equity. Robinson also is the co-owner of Motu Viget Spirits, a premium wine and spirits company, and part of the team bringing Ambiance GR Kitchen & Lounge to downtown Grand Rapids. Robinson has been recognized as a leading voice in West Michigan on economic equity with articles in Crain’s Detroit, The Guardian, Grand Rapids Business Journal, Grand Rapids Press and Grand Rapids Magazine. Robinson was named by the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce as one of 30 extraordinary leaders over the past 30 years.
BEST ADVICE: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” Wendy Mass FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I love to dance! FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Maui, Hawaii ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Enjoy every minute of your life because it goes by quickly. BUCKET LIST: Going to New York City with my husband and attending a Broadway show.
JAMIEL ROBINSON
EDUCATION: Carleton University (B) AWARDS: 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation, Compassionate Capitalist (Family Network of Wyoming), Pillar Award Lifetime Achievement, Torch Award for Ethics (Better Business Bureau Serving Western Michigan), WCSG 91.3 Hometown Hero Award, Express Franchise of the Year
Founder Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses, Grand Rapids
FIRST JOB: Helping to clean up my grandfather and uncle’s barbershop and property on South Division Avenue INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it.” Frantz Fanon BUCKET LIST: Visiting historic and ancient kingdoms in several countries on the continent of Africa
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TOP LAWYERS GRAND RAPIDS AREA
BASED UPON A SURVEY OF THEIR PEERS Less than 5% of all lawyers licensed in Michigan have received the distinction of being a LEADING LAWYER. Timothy Robert Alles
Peter D. Bosch
John E. Anding
Grand Rapids 616.365.5055 Elder Law; Trust, Will & Estate Planning
Grand Rapids 616.364.2900 Commercial Litigation; Criminal Defense: Felonies & Misd; Personal Injury Defense: General; Real Estate: Residential
Grand Rapids 616.454.8300 Commercial Litigation
Alles Law PC
Bosch Killman VanderWal
Drew Cooper & Anding
William M. Azkoul
Thomas R. Behm
J. Paul Janes
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Commercial Litigation; ADR: Commercial Litigation; Personal Injury: General
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury: Professional Malpractice; ADR: PI
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Civil Rights/Constitutional; Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury Plaintiff’s: Product Liability
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Scott R. Melton
Benjamin W. Mills
William F. Mills
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury Plaintiff’s: Product Liability
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury Plaintiff’s: Product Liability
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 Family Law; Personal Inury: General; Personl Injury: Professional Malpractice; Personal Injury: Transportation; Personal Injury Plaintiff’s: Product Liability
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Norman H. Pylman
Andrew T. Blum
Robert L. DeJong
Grand Rapids 616.235.5500 ADR: Commercial Litigation; Nursing Home Negligence; Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury: Professional Malpractice
Grand Rapids 616.776.6327 Commercial Litigation; Land Use, Zoning & Condemnation
Grand Rapids 616.776.6308 Class Action/Mass Tort Defense; Commercial Litigation; Products Liability Defense; Probate & Estate Litigation
Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman
Miller Canfield
Miller Canfield
Joseph Mikhail Infante
Stanley J. Stek
J. Terrance Dillon
Grand Rapids 616.776.6333 Commercial Litigation; Gov, Municipal, Lobbying & Admin; Intellectual Property
Grand Rapids 616.454.8656 Commercial Litigation; Land Use, Zoning & Condemnation; Personal Injury Defense: General
Grand Rapids 616.732.5000 Commercial Litigation; Criminal Defense: White Collar
Miller Canfield
Miller Canfield
Silver & Van Essen PC
Lee T. Silver
Thomas G. Sinas
Brian A. Molde
Grand Rapids 616.988.5600 Commercial Litigation; ADR: Commercial Litigation; Professional Malpractice Defense
Grand Rapids 616.301.3333 Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury: Transportation
Rockford 616.308.9087 Personal Injury: General; Personal Injury: Professional Malpractice
Silver & Van Essen PC
Sinas Dramis Law Firm
The Molde Law Firm
Richard A. Roane
Charles E. Chamberlain Jr.
Larry C. Willey
Grand Rapids 616.752.2367 Family Law
Grand Rapids 616.458.2212 Criminal Defense: Felonies & Misdemeanors; Criminal Defense: White Collar
Grand Rapids 616.458.2212 Criminal Defense: Felonies & Misdemeanors; Criminal Defense: White Collar
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Willey & Chamberlain LLP
Willey & Chamberlain LLP
A lawyer CANNOT buy the distinction of Leading Lawyer. The distinction was earned by being among those lawyers most often recommended by their peers. For a full description of our research process, a complete list of all Leading Lawyers, and to view profiles of the lawyers listed on this page, go to
www.LeadingLawyers.com
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BUSINESS SERVICES
VIRGINIA “GINNY” SEYFERTH
Founder, president Seyferth PR, Grand Rapids
Ginny Seyferth, APR left the corporate world of public relations and issues management to establish SeyferthPR in 1984. Thirty-seven years later she remains a powerful leader in counseling CEOs in every area of media, social media and traditional communications. The firm has grown in many ways and today has operations in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Indianapolis and Louisville. The COVID-19 pandemic quickly moved Seyferth and the SeyferthPR team into emergency response mode for multiple county health departments, hospitals and more than 60 businesses in the Midwest as they balanced different state rules on essential working environments, phased-in re-openings and the management of health screenings. Today, Seyferth leads a team that manages more than 800 Facebook pages while serving the media and communication efforts for every industry from health care to manufacturing, restaurants to automotive and construction. Seyferth remains an active volunteer on more than 15 boards and committees mostly tied to education, talent development or economic growth in the areas the firm serves. She and her husband of 33 years (Bob Boss) have two grown children.
CAPITAL SOURCES
DICK DEVOS
Board chair The Windquest Group, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Northwood University (B) FIRST JOB: Just like the other Van Andel and DeVos second generations, I spent my summers at Amway, initially watering trees, pulling weeds and cutting grass by hand, as they wouldn’t trust a 12-year-old with a power tool. BEST ADVICE: “You can do it.” Rich DeVos FAVORITE GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: My most favorite place is probably the older section of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. I remember Jay (Van Andel) and Dad (Richard DeVos) opening it in 1981 and the pride they had whenever they set foot in the building.
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B) FEW PEOPLE KNOW: Active volunteer supporting new learning methods in Detroit Public Schools
Max Friar is the founder and managing partner of Calder Capital. Founded in 2013, Calder Capital LLC is a lower middle market M&A advisory firm focused on representing sellers of industrial, distribution and business services companies with enterprise value from $1 million to $100 million, and strategic buyers seeking platform and bolt-on acquisitions in the same market segments.
MAX FRIAR
Managing partner Calder Capital LLC, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Alma College (B) FIRST JOB: When I was 15 years old, I flipped omelets and set up the weekend breakfast buffet at Brann's on Leonard. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU: I absolutely love thrash metal YOUR COVID EXPERIENCE: COVID has been overwhelmingly positive for me and for the business. Personally, I was running perhaps a bit too hard prior to COVID. I was absolutely bewildered at first, but overall, the abrupt halt gave me a lot of room and time to think and reflect that I may not have otherwise taken. We dug in, ground it out, and ended up shattering all of our previous records in terms of revenue and closed transactions. FAVORITE BOOK: “Awareness,” by Anthony de Mello PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Jeff Bezos — we are both bald, awkward and geniuses. ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: Major in business, finance, or economics. Get an internship. Start a business as early as possible. Study Buddhism. Spend time alone.
Dick DeVos has spent his business career working in a variety of executive positions at Amway, the NBA’s Orlando Magic and the Windquest Group, where he currently serves as its board chairman. As president of Amway from 1993-2002, DeVos held responsibility for all aspects of the company’s operations in 50 countries and six continents. In his final fiscal year of service, Amway reported sales of $4.5 billion. Prior to assuming the presidency, he served as vice president of Amway International where he held responsibility for the company’s operations in 18 countries outside North America. DeVos was replaced as president and CEO of Windquest in 2021 by Greg McNeilly but retains the board chair position of the company he and his wife, Betsy, founded in 1988.
DALE GROGAN
Managing partner Michigan Capital Network/ Grand Angels, Grand Rapids
Dale Grogan became managing partner of MCN/Grand Angels in 2020. The organization is one of Michigan’s most active and most consistent investment organizations with a stated objective of building world-class companies and entrepreneurial talent through investment and mentoring. The group is committed to utilizing its financial, intellectual and networking resources to help portfolio companies achieve more and its focus is on entrepreneurs and companies in Michigan and the Midwest region. Grogan has been a member of the Investment Review Board of the Michigan Pre-Seed Fund since 2009. He is a former managing director for Michigan Accelerator Fund I, MAF Opportunity Fund LP and Acuity Partners Ltd., former chairman of nanoRETE Inc., former advisory board director for Michigan Israel Business Bridge, former director of MichBio, former director of MIT Enterprise Forum Michigan, former adviser for Novus Biotechnology Fund I LP, and former chief strategist for LifeMed ID Inc. and SMART Association Inc. (where he also was director of smart card initiatives). He also is the former CEO of Leapfrog Smart Products and Conduit Healthcare Solutions Inc. EDUCATION: Huntingdon College (B, B), University of Alabama at Birmingham (M)
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Congratulations,
Scott Hill! on your recognition by Grand Rapids Business Journal as one of the 200 most powerful and influential people in West Michigan.
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Currently serves as the firm’s Executive Partner
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Corporate transactions, planning and counseling
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Succession planning for family and closely held businesses
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Counsels clients on supply chain contracting issues
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Community leader, mentor, role model
GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL’S
GRAND RAPIDS
200 THE MOST POWERFUL BUSINESS LEADERS IN WEST MICHIGAN
Ann Arbor | Birmingham | Detroit | Grand Haven | Grand Rapids | Kalamazoo | Naples, FL | Novi
CONGRATULATIONS TO SMITH HAUGHEY CEO MATT WIKANDER for being named one of Grand Rapids’ Most Powerful Business Leaders. We’re proud of and thankful for your passion, dedication and leadership.
SHRR.COM | 616-774-8000
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CAPITAL SOURCES
JEFF HELMINSKI
Founder, managing partner Auxo Investment Partners, Grand Rapids
Jeff Helminski is the founder and managing partner of Auxo Investment Partners, a private investment firm that has worked with multiple founder- and family-owned industrial, manufacturing and business services companies. Helminski has a diverse professional background that includes experience in private equity investing, manufacturing, engineering and high-volume assembly operations management at General Motors, and in real estate development as president of Campus Village Development Company.
MIKE JANDERNOA Founder, chairman 42 North Partners, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan Technological University (B), Purdue University (M), Stanford Graduate School of Business (MBA) BOARDS: Spectrum Health Hospital Group, Broadway Grand Rapids FIRST JOB: Paperboy delivering the Muskegon Chronicle FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Showing up to an office Halloween party dressed as a cowboy when everyone else dressed up as me. TOUGHEST LESSON LEARNED: No business opportunity is worth compromising your values for. It is critical to align yourself with people with whom you have a shared value system. LITTLE-KNOWN FACT: In college, I was the lead singer of a rock band that covered bands like Green Day and Stone Temple Pilots GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Summer concerts at Meijer Gardens FAVORITE CHARITY: Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp
JOHN KERSCHEN
President, managing partner Charter Capital Partners, Grand Rapids
John Kerschen’s success in the financial industry almost didn’t happen. A younger Kerschen was in pursuit of entering the medical industry, but it quickly became an afterthought when he realized he passes out at the sight of blood. As a result, Kerschen pursued another career path in finance that eventually led him to Charter Capital Partners. He has over 25 years of financial experience in commercial banking, merger and acquisition advisory, and private capital investment. He has used his expertise to complete more than 100 acquisition transactions with an aggregate value of more than $1 billion. Kerschen also is the managing director for Michigan Accelerator Fund I, a venture capital fund that invests in early-stage Michigan companies with a primary focus on life sciences technology.
Mike Jandernoa has quite a few business and investment experiences under his belt. Jandernoa was CEO of Perrigo Company from 1988-2000, chairman of the board from 1991-2003 and continued to serve on the board until 2017. Jandernoa is founder and chairman of 42 North Partners, a family office focusing on investments, entrepreneurship and community. He is a co-founder of Bridge Street Capital Partners and lead investor and board member of Hopen Life Science Fund. He’s also co-founder and board member of investment fund Grand Angels. Jandernoa is the founder of Jandernoa Entrepreneurial Mentoring, a program for established business entrepreneurs seeking one-on-one mentoring from a West Michigan business leader. He was a CPA, having worked at BDO Seidman for seven years prior to joining Perrigo as CFO in 1979. He was later promoted to executive vice president of sales and finance in 1981 and to president in January 1983. EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B) BOARDS: Business Leaders for Michigan, Hopen Life Science Fund, Metabolic Solutions Development Company, Spectrum Health, University of Michigan president’s advisory board, Grand Valley University Foundation, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Heart of West Michigan United Way
MARTIN STEIN
Founder, managing director Blackford Capital, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), DePaul University (M) FIRST JOB: Night waterman at White Lake Golf Club LESSON LEARNED: Focus your energy on those who recognize the value you bring and have self-confidence to hire people smarter than you. INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” Vince Lombardi ADVICE TO HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES: Find work you like with people you enjoy and respect, bet on yourself and don’t be afraid of change or failure.
With almost 20 years of private equity experience, Martin Stein leads the firm’s acquisition sourcing activities and has served on the boards of 15 of the firm’s platform portfolio companies. Additionally, he has served as board chair for nine of the firm’s platform investments. He has been involved in 50-plus acquisitions, investments, recapitalizations and exits worth approximately $750 million in transaction value, including multiple cross-border transactions spanning from Europe to Asia. Prior to founding Blackford Capital, Stein worked as a consultant with Mercer Management Consulting where he developed growth strategies for Fortune 500 clients such as Sears, Dow, Searle Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, and PacifiCare Health Systems. He has authored three Harvard Business School case studies and is a frequent keynote speaker at industry conferences. EDUCATION: University of Chicago (B), Harvard Business School (M) HIDDEN TALENT: I’m a good cook. I was once a chef in Paris — a sous chef, to be exact — and served as the president of the Advisory Council for the University of Chicago Food Committee, helping to design all meals for the dining services. BUCKET LIST: Running a 100-mile ultramarathon, which won’t happen as long as my kids are in the house.
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CIVIC LEADERS
DARWIN “DAR” BAAS
Director Kent County Department of Public Works, Grand Rapids
Dar Baas’ focus is the emerging circular economy, providing leadership and visioning to deliver waste diversion, energy recovery and sustainable material management strategies. Baas brings more than 25 years of environmental management experience in the public and private sector with experience in emergency response, hazardous waste transportation, environmental contracting, industrial cleaning, landfill, transfer station, material recovery facility and waste-to-energy operations. His current project is the county’s $500 million sustainable business park on 250 acres next to the South Kent Landfill. He also is involved policy formation at the local, state and national levels.
ROSALYNN BLISS Mayor City of Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of South Alabama (B), Michigan State University (M) FIRST JOB: Working at the concession stand at a two-screen movie theater in my hometown. FUNNIEST EXPERIENCE IN THE WORKPLACE: When people don’t realize I am the mayor, and they are complaining about local elected officials. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE FACED: When I was a child, I was diagnosed with a rare bone disease that resulted in multiple surgeries on my legs with much of my childhood being spent in a wheelchair, on crutches or using a walker. I had some very difficult days and challenges and learned a great deal about the importance of being optimistic, believing in yourself, recognizing that your challenges do not define you … along with the incredible power of people.
EDUCATION: Davenport University (B), Grand Valley State University (M) FIRST JOB: Resource recovery specialist, Ottawa County Health DepartmentEnvironmental Health Division BOARDS: Energy Recovery Council and Energy Michigan HIDDEN TALENT: I have a 3rd Dan black belt in Okinawan Shorin Ryu FAVORITE MOVIE: “A River Runs Through It” DOWNTIME: I enjoy day trips in the convertible, sitting on the front porch of my log home, enjoying time with family and friends, trying out area restaurants, brewpubs and distilleries throughout West Michigan.
PETER MEIJER
U.S. Representative Michigan’s 3rd congressional district
Peter Meijer was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2020. He is a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Meijer is a member of the committees on Foreign Affairs; Science, Space and Technology; and Homeland Security, as well as the subcommittee on Oversight, Management and Accountability. After graduating from Columbia University in 2012 with an undergraduate degree in cultural anthropology, Meijer worked in Afghanistan as a director at the International Safety NGO Organisation, an international charity that supports the safety of aid workers in conflict zones such as Syria and Somalia. In 2017, Meijer received his MBA from New York University and after a stint in Detroit real estate development, he decided to enter Michigan politics. He also has a history of global volunteerism, having served as site leader for Typhoon Haiyan relief operations in the Philippines, team leader for cholera vaccination efforts in South Sudan’s Upper Nile region and led relief operations post-Hurricane Sandy after conducting search and rescue efforts on the East Coast.
Rosalynn Bliss became Grand Rapids’ first female mayor on Jan. 1, 2016. She previously served as a Second Ward City Commissioner for 10 years. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, especially in the areas of domestic violence and child welfare. Bliss serves on the boards of the Downtown Development Authority, Experience Grand Rapids, Convention Arena Authority, Economic Club of Grand Rapids, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority, Interurban Transit Partnership and many others.
MARK WASHINGTON City Manager City of Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Columbia University (B), New York University (M) VOLUNTEER AND BOARD SERVICE: Student Veterans of America, Team Rubicon, Cape Eleuthera Foundation, NationSwell and With Honor
Mark Washington began serving as city manager in October 2018, a role in which he functions as the chief executive officer for the municipal corporation and oversees the $531 million budget, workforce of 1,500 employees and all city departments, operations, policies and programs related to public safety, economic development, community services, mobility, infrastructure, health, environment, recreation and community engagement. Washington has worked in local government for 25 years. Prior to his current post, he served as assistant city manager for Austin, Texas. Washington is a member of the International City/County Management Association, Grand Valley Metropolitan Council and Planning Organization, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Advisory Board, Spectrum Health Community Commitment Advisory Board and National Forum for Black Public Administrators. He holds the International Public Management Association-Senior Certified Professional designation and the Senior Professional in Human Resources certification from HR Certification Institute. EDUCATION: Tarleton State University (B), Amberton University (M), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (M, Ph.D.) FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I occasionally karaoke
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CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
JOHN BITELY
President Sable Homes, Rockford
John Bitely founded Sable Homes in 1996, focusing on residential and land development, as well as home construction and sales. Since then, Sable Homes has been a leader in the local and national home building industry, earning recognition from the National Association of Home Builders. Bitely has been instrumental in bringing awareness about the housing affordability crisis for West Michigan’s “missing middle” by working with community leaders, state and local government entities, and economic developers to help communities provide housing for their residents. Bitely has served on the Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids Board of Directors, Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids Foundation and as board president of Urban Family Ministries.
TODD CUSTER
CEO Custer Family of Companies, Grand Rapids
YOUR COVID EXPERIENCE: The challenge of moving a small business forward all while maintaining the safety of our clients and employees, being transparent with our customers, and navigating ever-changing and obscure regulations. LESSON LEARNED: Being a problem solver also means taking the lead and finding solutions that look at the big picture — whether they’re popular with others or not. BUCKET LIST: Traveling to Alaska or Northern Canada to look for a mountain goat, moose and possibly a brown or grizzly bear. (I prefer to find them before they find me!)
BJORN GREEN
President, CEO TowerPinkster, Grand Rapids
Bjorn Green serves as the president and chief executive officer of TowerPinkster, a Michigan architectural, interior design and engineering firm with over 140 employees. Since joining TowerPinkster in 2007, he has been involved in the growth, evolution and management of the company’s portfolio of clients, projects and talented team of professionals. This year, he has spent considerable time navigating the challenges presented by 2020, working to develop strategies for TowerPinkster and its clients to envision indoor environments and solutions that support healthy spaces and social distancing guidelines. Green excels at leading a collaborative team-based approach where all voices matter. He has been working closely with the TowerPinkster team to maintain their award-winning company culture as they have implemented remote work solutions to keep employees and their families safe.
Todd Custer is president and CEO of the Custer Family of Companies, which is a consolidation of companies that specialize in the commercial and residential spaces in which people work and live. These companies include Custer Inc. (commercial furniture/ design), Century (flooring and cleaning services), CS Erickson (electrical, energy and audio visual), Flooryaltics (floor and fabric testing) and custom solution provider Renegade (custom furniture, cabinetry and architectural pieces). Prior to joining the family business in 2007, Custer worked for Steelcase and was based in Denver with account responsibility for West Coast dealers. He’s actively involved in the Family Business Alliance, Jandernoa Entrepreneur Mentoring (JEM), Clark Foundation, Van Andel Institute, Grand Action 2.0, GVSU Foundation and West Michigan CEO Council, as well as several other community organizations focusing on health care and education. His vision is to successfully transition the company to the next generation — whenever they are ready to take it on. EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BEST ADVICE: Plan your week on Sunday nights so you are ready to hit the ground running on Monday morning. LESSON LEARNED: You can’t do it all alone; you have to build a great team of leaders around you.
AARON JONKER
President, Co-owner Wolverine Building Group, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Miami (B) FIRST JOB: When I was 11 or 12, I laundered, ironed and folded towels in my grandparents’ basement for my dad’s dental practice BEST ADVICE: Be kind and treat all others as you want to be treated. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: No Shave “Movember” mustache contest! LESSON LEARNED: That the power of the team is stronger than the strength of the individual
Aaron Jonker and his business partner, Curt Mulder, became the fifth owners of Wolverine Building Group in January 2018. An engineer by education, Jonker joined the company in 2007 as a project manager and was promoted to a vice president in 2010. He specialized in multiunit residential construction involving state and federal historic tax credit compliance and LIHTC funding. Jonker said he has overseen some of Wolverine’s most complex historic renovation projects, many of which have received the Michigan Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation. Founded in 1939, Wolverine has more than 150 employees and specializes in industrial, multiunit residential, health care, office, retail and restaurant construction. EDUCATION: Calvin College (B) BOARDS: Pine Rest Foundation, co-chair for the city of Grand Rapids’ equitable economic development and mobility strategic plan steering committee, Talent 2025’s CEO Council FIRST JOB: Wholesale greenhouse BOOKS: My love for literature started with JD Salinger but has continued to include John Steinbeck, Cormac McCarthy and, most recently, Colson Whitehead and Neil Gaiman, among others. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Trying to develop a diverse workforce in a traditionally nondiverse industry TRAVEL DESTINATION: Visiting my sister in Nicaragua and exploring Central America
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CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN Last year, Mick McGraw’s home building company ranked as the 95th largest U.S. homebuilder by Builder Magazine. Since he became the president in 1986, Eastbrook Homes has built more than 10,000 residential units and developed hundreds of communities. He has been instrumental in the purchase and revitalization of projects that had become distressed or abandoned, such as Macatawa Legends, Prairie Winds, Placid Waters and Tannery Bay.
MICK MCGRAW President, CEO Eastbrook Homes, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Olivet Nazarene University (B) BOARD: Olivet Nazarene University Foundation INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan ‘Press On!’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.” Calvin Coolidge
CURT MULDER
President, co-owner Wolverine Building Group, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B) BEST ADVICE: Listen through curiosity HIDDEN TALENT: I raise Texas Longhorns on my farm in Lowell. TRAVEL DESTINATION: Pacific Northwest ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Take some time to explore and try as many new things as you can. Learn by way of adventure and be curious. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Meijer Gardens’ summer concert series FAVORITE CHARITY: Forgotten Man Ministries, Next Step of West Michigan, Young Life BUCKET LIST: Ride in a fighter jet
FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: Walking in a suit and tie and falling waist deep into a muddy trench. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Maintaining a successful building company in the two big downturns of the last 45 years. The 1979 to 1981 years of 22% prime and mortgage rates of 17% and the Great Recession of 2007 to 2012. HOBBIES: Golf, hunting and raising Red Angus cows in Montana
MIKE NOVAKOSKI President, CEO Elzinga & Volkers Construction, Holland
Mike Novakoski is the president and CEO for three successful, innovative businesses — EV Construction, a growing national construction firm; EV Group, a national staffing company; and Become Unmistakable, a consulting business designed to train and develop well-rounded corporate leaders. He also has worked to build and develop uMap software (myumap.com) that is being used internationally by several well-known organizations. For 30 years, he has worked to develop a corporate culture that enables employees to thrive both professionally and personally and also gives clients an experience that is second-to-none. Novakoski is a sought-after national speaker who enjoys sharing the story of the company’s journey in building culture. Under his leadership, EV Construction has received numerous accolades for its work in safety, the community and employee development.
Wolverine Building Group, founded in 1939, has over 150 employees and is recognized nationally as a leader in the construction industry. Curt Mulder, along with his business partner, Aaron Jonker, became the fifth owners of the company in 2018. Mulder began working at Wolverine in 1998 while he was pursuing his civil engineering degree at what is now Calvin University. Upon graduation, he went to work for Wolverine full time as a project manager. He was promoted to vice president in 2010 and president in 2016. Mulder has a wide range experience in the industrial, office, health care, education and multiunit residential markets. He currently serves on Greater Grand Rapids YMCA board.
ROGER REHKOPF President Orion Construction, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Ferris State University (B), Grand Valley State University (M) FIRST JOB: Beginning at age 10, I was a paper carrier for five years — 365 days a year! HIDDEN TALENT: I am a master carpenter. I have had my builder’s license since the age of 18 and have always enjoyed the craft BUCKET LIST: Completing the top five international marathons. I have completed Chicago and New York and look forward to London, Berlin and Tokyo
Roger Rehkopf joined Orion Construction in 2011, serving as senior vice president. He has more than 25 years of construction-related project management and business development experience. In 2014, he assumed the role of president, directing strategic growth and streamlining internal operations for the company. Rehkopf has a strong background in architectural design and design-build projects. Like many heavy hitters in the West Michigan construction scene, he spun out of Grand Rapids-based Rockford Construction, where he served as vice president for almost 17 years. He has worked on a number of significant Grand Rapids projects, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Grand Rapids Police Department and Blue Cross Blue Shield. EDUCATION: Ferris State University (A) NOTABLE: Orion Construction won Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Newsmaker of the Year award in the Real Estate/Construction category in 2017, 2018 and 2019. HIGH SCHOOL: Reed City High School
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CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
JONATHAN ROOKS
President Parkland Properties of Michigan, Muskegon
Jon Rooks’ fingerprints are all over West Michigan. Since 1988, his company has specialized in saving and adaptively reusing buildings in urban settings and creating, developing and marketing coastal West Michigan waterfront properties such as Ellenwood Landing, The Wharf Marina, Bayou Meadows and Terrace Point Landing. Between 2002 and 2007, Rooks developed what still represents over 50% of the condo housing market today in downtown Grand Rapids. After that, he added hotels and restaurants to his portfolio with the Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, Lakehouse Waterfront Grille and the newly remodeled Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon connected to the new VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center. Parkland currently employs over 200 people and operates more than 20 businesses and properties throughout West Michigan, including office buildings, apartments, condominiums, marinas, hotels, restaurants, land developments, retail complexes and warehouses.
TIM SCHOWALTER
President, CEO Pioneer Construction, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B) BUCKET LIST: Travel the Mediterranean Sea by boat and visit the different coastal communities LESSON LEARNED: You can’t make a buck while you’re closed HIDDEN TALENT: I speak German FAVORITE BOOK: “Getting to Yes,” by William Ury and Roger Fisher
JEFF SCHUMAKER President Fishbeck
Jeff Schumaker has been with Fishbeck since 1993. He began as a structural engineer and was instrumental in developing and growing Fishbeck’s steam distribution market for higher education clients around the Midwest. Schumaker first began his career as an engineer with Scott Civil Engineering, where he learned the full lifespan of a project, which became the foundation of his project management skills, and later, firm management. “The toughest challenge is getting a group of people, who all have unique thoughts and abilities, working together and moving in a singular direction,” Schumaker said. These early years as a project manager and lead design engineer gave him the foundation to assume additional leadership roles and eventually be named Fishbeck’s president in 2019. Through his guidance, Fishbeck continues to be among the nation’s leaders in engineering, architectural and environmental science consulting and was recently recognized in Zweig Group’s Hot 100 List of fastest growing companies.
Pioneer Construction is a Grand Rapids-based general contractor with annual revenues in excess of $200 million and approximately 300 full-time employees. Tim Schowalter, who met his wife, Barbie Beckering, in college, went to work for Pioneer upon graduation in 1995. He and his wife eventually purchased the firm from her father in 2005. Recent Pioneer projects include Revolution Farms greenhouse in Caledonia, Falk Panel manufacturing in Walker, Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown, GVSU 333 Michigan classroom and laboratory building for health sciences, GVSU/ Spectrum 335 parking ramp, Avflight hangar, Van Andel Arena Plaza streetscape, Studio Park’s The Listening Room and Celebration Cinema, Aquinas College Albertus Magnus Hall of Science expansion and renovation, Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown and 601 Bond apartments. Pioneer’s services include general contracting, design/build and construction management. EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BEST ADVICE: If things don't work out the way you planned, don't dwell on it; just move on HIDDEN TALENT: I’ve built two small wooden boats DOWNTIME: Reading, catching up on the news, crossword puzzles, pickleball — you know, old people stuff
BRADLEY THOMAS
President, CEO Progressive AE, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan Technological University (B) FAVORITE GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: ArtPrize. I love the atmosphere and energy around this event HOBBIES: Golf, disc golf, pickleball and water or snow skiing. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL AN 18-YEAR-OLD YOU OR RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE?: If it is worth doing, do it right the first time.
Bradley Thomas has been president and CEO of Progressive AE since 2004. He possesses the philosophy that “spaces are strategic contributors, not static places,” and his experience centers around contract interpretation, administration and dispute resolution. Progressive AE opened its fourth office in Holland in 2018. The firm also has offices in Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Charlotte, North Carolina. Progressive AE opened in 1962 and employs more than 230 people. The company has worked on thousands of projects throughout the country, including more than 3,100 in Michigan. All services provided outside the state are through a related company. Progressive AE won the American Institute of Architects’ Michigan Firm of the Year award and the American Council of Engineering Companies’ Michigan Engineering Merit award, both in 2018. EDUCATION: McMaster University (B), Michigan State University (M) HOMETOWN: Chatham, Ontario NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS: Holland Energy Park, Boys & Girls Club of Holland, Gentex, West Michigan Regional Airport, Holland Hospital, city of Grand Haven, Rol Ergo, Trendway, Mary Free Bed YMCA COMMUNITY: Economic Club of Grand Rapids board, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce governance committee, Talent 2025 CEO Council
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CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
MIKE VANGESSEL
Founder, CEO Rockford Construction, Grand Rapids
Mike VanGessel has led the Rockford team since it began in 1987, through more than 4,500 projects totaling more than $4.8 billion. A Grand Rapids native with strong ties to the community, VanGessel is drawn to projects that positively impact the way people live, work, learn, heal and play. He uses his innovative and entrepreneurial spirit to serve the company and the community as he works with civic leaders, nonprofit organizations and other visionaries to create a brighter future for West Michigan. VanGessel serves on many boards and consistently gives his time and talents to serving others.
WAYNE VISBEEN Founder, principal Visbeen Architects, East Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BEST ADVICE: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Two workers on a job site got in a fight and refused to shake hands. I made them stand on opposite sides of the building’s windows. They spent the whole day washing windows and staring at each other. HOBBIES: Hunting, fishing, hiking, scuba diving ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: I would tell an 18-year-old me to learn how to type. I would tell a recent grad to work during college because it’s a great way to discover a career, and I would tell everyone else to take time to be grateful. PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: If I want my wife to watch, it should probably be Brad Pitt.
MITCHELL “MITCH” WATT Partner Triangle Associates, Grand Rapids
Mitchell Watt’s career as an architect, contractor, business and community leader spans over 35 years in West Michigan. He has focused much of his career in the planning, design and construction of buildings, serving a broad range of clients in the educational, health care, commercial and infrastructure market segments. He has been involved in hundreds of planning, design and construction projects throughout Michigan, across the U.S. and abroad. As a partner, Watt is involved in the day-to-day operations of the regionally based construction management company with a focus on strategic planning, business and project development and preconstruction phase services. Prior to joining Triangle, his career included more than 20 years with URS (now AECOM) in various design, project and business management roles, including 10 years as managing principal for the firm’s Great Lakes region. Watt currently serves on the boards of the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Valley State University Foundation and Versiti Corporation, a blood services and research institute headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Wayne Visbeen has more than 30 years of experience in retail, residential, commercial design and visual merchandising. He holds membership in the American Institute of Architects, the International Interior Design Association, and is a fellow of the American Institute of Building Design College of Fellows. Visbeen spent time as a senior designer at the Taubman Companies, designing more than 100 national prototypes for leading retailers across the nation before launching his own firm specializing in residential and commercial projects in 1992. Visbeen has collaborated with multiple companies, including Champion Home Builders, Phantom Screens, Napoleon Fireplaces and GAF. Additionally, he designed custom playhouses as a product and creative designer for the television production “Playhouse Masters,” including designs for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Visbeen Architects has completed more than 1,400 projects in 48 states and 10 countries and is the recipient of more than 100 national awards. EDUCATION: Lawrence Tech University (B, M) FIRST JOB: Haberdasher selling suits to Wall Street executives at a small men’s clothing boutique TV SHOW: “Survivor,” in fact, I’m working on a casting video to apply for the show.
JOHN WHEELER
CEO Wheeler Development Group, Grand Rapids
John Wheeler has inspired and orchestrated the development of more than $1 billion in real estate throughout his dynamic career. Wheeler’s experience with urban core development is equally matched with his passion for his work. His role has been recognized as instrumental to Grand Rapids’ downtown revitalization through the 1990s and early 2000s. He founded and led Rockford Construction from 1987 to 2009, and later partnered with Gary Postma to start Orion Real Estate Solutions in 2011. Wheeler has been recognized for several industry awards throughout his career and his successes have been shared through his varied philanthropic commitments. EDUCATION: Ferris State University (B, M) HOBBIES: Fishing, hunting, hiking TRAVEL DESTINATION: Islamorada, Florida SPEND DOWN TIME: With family, enjoying the Florida Keys ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: Don’t be afraid to take risks, be honest and hardworking, and be grateful for the opportunities and challenges in your life FAVORITE ATTRACTION: Riverside Park FAVORITE CHARITY: Community Media Center BUCKET LIST: Visit all the continents
EDUCATION: University of Kansas (B, B) FAVORITE MOVIE: “North by Northwest” BUCKET LIST: Scuba dive Great Barrier Reef
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CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
BEN WICKSTROM
President, CEO Erhardt Construction, Ada
Ben Wickstrom started as a project manager at Erhardt Construction in 1998, eventually working his way to the top in 2017 as president and CEO. He is a member and the past board president of the Western Chapter of the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers. Erhardt Construction has a lengthy list of credits to its name. Projects include Amy Van Andel Library and Community Center, Ottawa Hills High School, St. Cecilia Music Center, YWCA West Central Michigan, Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center, GVSU Holton-Hooker Living and Learning Center, Forty Pearl restaurant, Saint Robert Catholic School, and Ferris Coffee & Nut headquarters, among others. Erhardt also has been recognized with awards from Associated Builders and Contractors West Michigan Chapter, American Public Works Association and American Institute of Architects.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ED GARNER
Regional director Michigan Small Business Development Center West Michigan Region, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Western Michigan University (M) FIRST JOB: Sales engineer for Westinghouse Electric Corporation in Southfield. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Refusing to fire an employee at the risk of losing my own job because a stakeholder had personal issues with the person. Lesson learned: Do the right thing, and things will undoubtedly work out. DOWNTIME: I enjoy live musical performances, especially jazz, relaxing on the beach and spending time with loved ones. BUCKET LIST: To visit the Egyptian pyramids
EDUCATION: Michigan Technological University (B) FIRST JOB: I stocked shelves at the local grocery store. I remember competing against my co-workers to see who could stock our assigned aisles the fastest. To this day, I still admire a good “facing” job in a store. BEST ADVICE: Take good care of your customers. If you don’t, someone else will. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I love football. I played throughout college and now enjoy coaching.
STEVE HEACOCK
President, CEO Grand Rapids Whitewater, Grand Rapids
Steve Heacock has played a role in many of the developments that have led to the economic revitalization of Grand Rapids: Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place, Millennium Park, Van Andel Institute, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine downtown and more. Prior to joining Grand Rapids Whitewater, Heacock was senior vice president of public affairs/research at Spectrum Health and president of Spectrum Health Innovations. He was chief admin officer of Van Andel Institute, VP of development and general counsel for Priority Health, a partner at Warner Norcross + Judd and a CPA with PwC in Detroit.
Ed Garner is responsible for providing comprehensive leadership, oversight, planning, resource development, coordination and management of the Michigan Small Business Development Center’s West Region Center, at Grand Valley State University. Garner has over 35 years of experience in economic and business development, marketing and sales, lending and customer service. Prior to joining the SBDC, he was the president and CEO of Muskegon Area First Economic Development Corporation and economic development vice president for the Grand Haven Chamber of Commerce. Previously, he served as the executive director of the Kent Area MicroBusiness Loan Services — the first SBA microloan program in the region.
JENNIFER OWENS
President Lakeshore Advantage, Zeeland
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), University of Michigan Law School (J.D.) BOARDS: Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority chair, Legacy Trust chair, United Bank of Michigan board, Gerald R. Ford International Airport board FIRST JOB: At 13 years old, in the kitchen of Hidden Valley in Gaylord BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Peter Cook told me to broaden perspective by having at least one close friend 20 years older and one 20 years younger. HIDDEN TALENT: I love to cook. My mother taught me. When I was in high school, she would call me from her work at the courthouse and ask me to get a meatloaf ready for dinner. TRAVEL DESTINATION: Paris or Mackinac Island BUCKET LIST: Rafting down the restored rapids in the Grand River
Jennifer Owens delivers direct business attraction, expansion and retention services while providing overall leadership to the organization. Since joining Lakeshore Advantage in 2013, she has helped guide various major business expansion and attraction projects. She has more than 15 years of leadership experience in business retention, expansion and attraction, working at various state and local economic development positions throughout Michigan. Prior to joining Lakeshore Advantage, Owens held the positions of vice president at Southwest Michigan First and principal of Consultant Connect, an organization that cultivates relationships between economic developers and location consultants. She also has worked for Ann Arbor SPARK and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. She was named an ATHENA Award finalist (2017), Grand Rapids Business Journal Newsmaker of the Year finalist (2015 and 2016), Corp! Magazine Most Valuable Professional (2017) and Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan (2018). EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Leadership certificates from University of Notre Dame and University of Alabama FIRST JOB: Associate editor, Point of Beginning magazine for land surveyors and GIS professionals. I lasted at that job for six months.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
KEVIN STOTTS
President Talent 2025, Grand Rapids
Talent 2025 is a CEO-led effort in West Michigan to improve the quality of the region’s talent development, attraction and retention efforts. As president, Kevin Stotts works with business, education, workforce and economic development leaders, as well as policymakers, to ensure West Michigan is a top-20 region for talent. Prior to joining Talent 2025, he served as vice president of community programs for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, where he launched Hello West Michigan, an employer-led effort to attract talent to the region. Stotts also has led several nonprofit organizations related to education, workforce and community development. He also serves on several statewide, regional, and local boards and commissions related to education and workforce, and was a member of former Gov. Rick Snyder’s 21st Century Education Commission and an American Enterprise Institute fellow.
EDUCATION
RANDY THELEN President, CEO The Right Place
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I worked two jobs while going to college full time, so I didn’t get a lot of sleep. I would take naps on my breaks at Meijer in the refrigeration coolers when I worked in the grocery department. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Work a lot of different jobs to find what you enjoy most and travel a lot while you have the chance to do it. BUCKET LIST: Visit Rome and meet Sammy Hagar
CAROL VAN ANDEL Co-chair Grand Action 2.0
Carol Van Andel is a fixture in the West Michigan community. Recently, she became the co-chair of Grand Action 2.0, an organization that is focused on economic development. Grand Action was founded in 1992 and it has completed public-private developments that accounted for $420 million in direct capital investment, including private funding of $130 million. Other projects include DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and the Secchia Center at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Grand Action ceased operation in 2017, but in 2020 the organization relaunched itself as Grand Action 2.0. Its primary mission is to identify capital-intensive projects that could transform the downtown area, galvanize public opinion and support for those projects, and leverage public and private investment. As a philanthropist, Van Andel has financially donated to a number of projects and she holds prominent positions in organizations, foundations and schools, including the David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, the Van Andel Education Institute Advisory Council, Hope College Board of Trustees and the Grand Valley University Foundation.
A Michigan native with 25 years of experience in the industry, Randy Thelen took the helm of the regional economic development organization in 2021 after serving as senior vice president of economic development at the Downtown Denver Partnership, where he led efforts to attract investment, recruit and retain business, and advocate for housing, retail and public policy initiatives. He supported downtown projects totaling more than $1 billion in investments and oversaw The Commons, an award-winning entrepreneurial center serving over 15,000 people each year with over 70% of program participants from traditionally underrepresented populations. Prior to joining the Downtown Denver Partnership, Thelen led economic development for the Greater Omaha Chamber. While there, he led a two-state, eight-county regional economic development effort and executed a $24 million “Prosper Omaha” strategy that brought $3.9 billion in new capital investment. EDUCATION: Alma College (B), Binghamton University (M) MICHIGAN CONNECTIONS: Started economic development career with organizations in Monroe and Evart; former managing director of Michigan Economic Development Corp.; first president of Lakeshore Advantage in Zeeland
NORMAN BEAUCHAMP Associate provost and assistant vice president for health initiatives/dean MSU College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids
As dean of the MSU College of Human Medicine, Norman Beauchamp leads medical school and research operations in downtown Grand Rapids. With the expansion of a second facility on the research campus, his goal is to put the area on the map for health care innovation. Beauchamp started his role over four years ago and since has been dedicated to expansion of the field and overall economic development locally. Prior, he was a professor and chairperson of the department of radiology at the University of Washington. EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (M), Michigan State University College of Human Medicine (MD) MEDICAL SCHOOL RESIDENCY AND FELLOWSHIPS: The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine CHILDHOOD: At age 7, his family moved from Boston to a farm in St. Johns, Michigan, where he helped raise 200 chickens and 20 cows until college. EARLY CAREER: Substantially increased the number of patients treated at Johns Hopkins Medical Institution by reducing wait times BOARDS: Van Andel Institute, The Right Place, formerly Grand Action
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) FAVORITE MOVIE: The Blind Side
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Ferris State University is proud to congratulate President David Eisler on his recognition among the Grand Rapids 200.
FERRIS FORWARD Work side-by-side with expert faculty who’ve worked in the fields they teach, in a program crafted by industry advisors to meet today’s demand. Let our experience and partnerships become your edge in the job market. This is a foundation that moves you.
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EDUCATION
DAVID EISLER
President Ferris State University, Big Rapids/Grand Rapids
Dr. David Eisler has served as president of Ferris State University since July 2003 and is the senior public university president in Michigan. Under his leadership, the university has embarked on an ambitious program of curricular innovation, classroom renovation, cooperative programs with high schools and community colleges, and providing opportunity for students who may not otherwise attend college. Under his leadership, Ferris State was the first university selected to receive the Uncommon Greatness Award from the Center for Community Leadership of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. In 2018, Eisler was chosen to present the President-to-Presidents lecture to his nearly 400 presidential colleagues of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
J.C. HUIZENGA
Chairman, founder National Heritage Academies, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B, Ph.D.), Yale University (M) FIRST JOB: Woodwinds instructor and assisting with the band program at Troy State University in Alabama. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: When I was a dean of fine arts at Eastern New Mexico University, a young man was walking the hall and making a disturbance. I went out to see what the problem was and walked with him. He was complaining about the dean, which was me. I said, “Well, he’s like that” and walked back to my office. He stopped complaining.
PHILOMENA MANTELLA
President Grand Valley State University, Allendale
Philomena Mantella became the fifth president of Grand Valley State University in July 2019. One of her key initiatives is creating access to educational opportunities for all learners. During her first year at Grand Valley, she launched the Laker Lifetime Learning (L3) Commitment, which puts $1,000 aside for every graduate to use for future classes at Grand Valley, as well as an accelerated online degree program to help adults complete their bachelor’s degree. Prior to GVSU, she spent 18 years at Northeastern University in Boston both as senior vice president of enrollment and student life, and as the chief executive officer of the Lifelong Learning Network. She also has been an educator at institutions in New York and New Jersey along with Ferris State University.
EDWARD MONTGOMERY
President Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo
EDUCATION: Syracuse University (B, M), Michigan State University (Ph.D.) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today.” Franklin Roosevelt TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The senseless loss of young life on a college campus without a doubt. FAVORITE HOBBIES: Cooking, weightlifting and biking BUCKET LIST: A private plane and a pilot license FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I have a black belt in Taekwondo.
J.C. Huizenga founded National Heritage Academies in 1995 and now chairs the organization that serves more than 60,000 students in 100 charter schools across nine states. Huizenga founded and is the chairman of Huizenga Group, which manages a portfolio of enterprises providing a broad range of products and services. Huizenga has chaired the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, served as a national judge for Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and serves on the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority. EDUCATION: Hope College (B), Michigan State University (M) BOARDS: Mackinac Center for Public Policy, Acton Institute, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Grand Valley State University Foundation, Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, Salvation Army National advisory board, Seidman School of Business advisory board FIRST JOB: Washing garbage trucks BEST ADVICE: Never confuse activity with accomplishment HOBBIES: Travel, boating, politics DOWNTIME: On the lakeshore in Holland during the summer GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Frederik Meijer Gardens summer concert series
Edward Montgomery became the ninth president of Western Michigan University in August 2017. Since then, he has launched initiatives focused on student success, revitalizing the south campus neighborhood, the development of a new budget model impacting all areas of campus and the implementation of the revised core curriculum. As part of his commitment to helping students complete their studies, Montgomery implemented a targeted grant program to assist financially at-risk students. During a more than 35-year academic career, Montgomery has held faculty positions at Carnegie Mellon and Michigan State universities, as well as the University of Maryland. During the Clinton administration, Montgomery held a number of positions, including chief economist and deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor. In the latter role, he oversaw operations of a $33 billion federal department. EDUCATION: Penn State University (B), Harvard University (M, Ph.D.) BOARDS: Center for Law and Social Policy, First National Bank of Michigan, Southwest Michigan First FIRST JOB: Delivering the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Never be too big to do the little things that need to be done.”
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EDUCATION
RICHARD PAPPAS
President Davenport University, Grand Rapids
Richard Pappas leads the strategic direction of Davenport University while focusing on implementing quality measures that elevate academic programming, student support, market position and financial strength of the institution. As a result, Davenport’s graduation rate has increased by more than 158% since 2009, and student retention, student satisfaction and philanthropic giving are at all-time highs. Prior to assuming his current position at Davenport in 2009, Pappas also served as president of National-Louis University, Lake Michigan College and Harford Community College. He is a member of the regional board for Fifth Third Bank and a board member for The Right Place and the American Council on Education.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
BILL PINK
President Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Eastern Michigan University (B), University of Michigan (M, Ph.D.) FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I make videos before each strategic planning session that poke fun at me and the leadership team. Taking our work seriously is important, but we don’t want to take ourselves too seriously — it’s important to have fun while you’re doing important work. HIDDEN TALENT: I was a table tennis champion, and I began to write a fiction novel a number of years ago. I have to get back to writing it. BUCKET LIST: Travel to Spain and Israel PLAY YOU IN MOVIE: Anderson Cooper
LEADRIANE ROBY
Superintendent Grand Rapids Public Schools
Leadriane Roby is guiding Grand Rapids Public Schools through its 150-year celebration. Hired in 2020, she leads the state’s eighth-largest school district with approximately 15,000 students and almost 1,100 teachers. Roby is an experienced and reflective educator with a 26-year history in public education. She began her career as an elementary classroom teacher, advancing to other roles including instructional leader, mentor, elementary and secondary principal and district leader in school districts in Michigan and Minnesota. From school performance turnarounds to new strategic planning practices to promoting safe and respectful learning environments — all while embracing 21st-century approaches with data-driven decision-making and more — Roby’s leadership has impacted classrooms, communities and cultures in urban and suburban districts alike. She has led school performance turnarounds, new strategic planning practices, and the promotion of safe and respectful learning environments during her career.
Dr. Bill Pink became the 10th president of Grand Rapids Community College in May 2017 and is the first African American appointed to the post in the institution’s 100-plus years. The Abilene, Texas, native has taught and coached in Oklahoma, Nebraska and Oregon. He was inducted into the York College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016 for his performance as a student-athlete. Pink was elected to the board of trustees for the Higher Learning Commission and serves on the Community College Advisory Panel for The College Board, and the American Council on Education board. He was appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation executive committee and most recently was elected to the American Association of Community Colleges board. In West Michigan, he serves on the boards of Spectrum Health West Michigan, the Heart of West Michigan United Way, West Michigan Works!, the Grand Rapids Economic Club and The Right Place. EDUCATION: Oklahoma Christian University (B), University of Central Oklahoma (M), University of Oklahoma (Ph.D.) BEST ADVICE: Always leave things better than you found them HIDDEN TALENT: I used to be a radio personality (DJ in my day!) on a radio station in Oklahoma City and had the top-rated radio show for that day/time in the city among adults.
LARRY BELL
Owner Bell’s Brewery, Kalamazoo
EDUCATION: University of Minnesota (B), Saint Mary’s/Minnesota (M), Western Michigan University (Ph.D.) FAVORITE BOOK: Recently read “Where The Crawdads Sing,” by Delia Owens, but calls “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing,” by Judy Blume, a “classic.”
Larry Bell moved to Kalamazoo in the late 1970s to attend college. After graduation, he began working at the original Sarkozy Bakery where he gained an interest in yeast and fermentation. Soon after, Bell started brewing his own beer and saw an opportunity to make a business out of it. Bell opened a homebrew supply shop in 1983 under the name Kalamazoo Brewing Co. He began selling beer commercially two years later. In 1990, Bell’s beer became available outside Michigan, and three years later, Bell’s became the first Michigan brewery to open an on-site pub, the Eccentric Café. Today, Bell’s, which officially changed its name from Kalamazoo Brewing Co. in 2005, can be found in 39 states, as well as Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. Bell reassumed operations of the company after his daughter, Laura Bell, stepped down from the role of CEO in 2018. EDUCATION: Kalamazoo College (B) NOTABLE: In 1986, production reached 135 barrels. Originally self-distributed, me and a staff of nine bottled and delivered everything for the next four years.
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Achieve your dream Whether your dream is to earn a better salary, advance your career or finish what you started, Davenport University can help you get there. We offer career-focused degree programs in business, technology, health and urban education. Take classes full time, part time, online or on campus. With six start dates, you can begin at your convenience and complete your degree at a pace that works with your busy life.
Learn more: visit davenport.edu/achieve
LEADING WHAT’S NEXT Grand Valley State University congratulates President Philomena V. Mantella on being named to the Grand Rapids 200 list of leaders by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. Since becoming Grand Valley’s fifth president in 2019, she has established a dynamic vision and energized the Grand Valley community to shape the university as a leader, elevating student equity and innovation in education. Her many initiatives include introducing the Grand Valley Pledge tuition-free program for students from low-income backgrounds; launching an accelerated online degree completion program to help adults complete their bachelor’s degrees; creating pathway programs with high schools and other universities to help underserved students come to GVSU; and founding REP4, a national alliance of six colleges and universities formed to support student-designed solutions for addressing equity and access in higher education. We celebrate President Mantella’s impact and accomplishments so far and look forward to what’s next under her leadership.
gvsu.edu
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
JAMES BERG
CEO, partner Essence Restaurant Group, Grand Rapids
James Berg got the bug for food and beverage industry in the 1980s, working as a server for restaurants such as Taco Boy and T.G.I. Fridays. In 1993, he moved into formal dining, taking a position with Egypt Valley Country Club as its lead bartender and beverage director. He was quickly promoted to dining manager and beverage director, where he was responsible for beverage coordination for events such as the First of America Classic Golf Tournament held at the country club, which served 40,000 people. Berg went to work for the Woodrick family in 1996 to help open Bistro Bella Vita. He started as restaurant manager and was soon promoted to general manager. In 2006, he formed Essence Restaurant Group (ERG) with partners Patrick Wise and Jeffrey Gietzen, becoming the owner-operators of Bistro Bella Vita and opening The Green Well in 2007 and Grove in 2011. Wise recently left ERG, and last year, ERG added a new partner, Hillary Edwards-Berg.
DAVE ENGBERS
Co-founder, president Founders Brewing Co., Grand Rapids
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Dave Engbers attended Hope College where he met fellow co-founder Mike Stevens. The pair spent their college years dreaming of opening a brewery, and after a few years spent on unsatisfying career paths, Engbers and Stevens decided they never wanted to look back on life with regrets. They wrote a business plan, secured funding and opened the doors of Founders Brewing Co. in 1997. Building the brewery from the ground up, the pair had to spend time in every role. Recently, the company sold 90% of ownership to longtime partner Mahou San Miguel based in Spain, but Engbers and Stevens still are involved in the brewery. EDUCATION: Hope College (B)
EDUCATION: Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University (B) FIRST JOB: Taco Boy on Plainfield in 1988 FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: My record for shots of espresso is 24 in 1998 at Bistro Bella Vita. Haven’t slept a good night since. HIDDEN TALENT: I can juggle. FAVORITE HOBBIES: Golfing and working out.
GREGORY GILMORE CEO Gilmore Collection, Grand Rapids
Gregory Gilmore has been in the hospitality industry for over 40 years and is passionate about bringing people together for entertainment and the pleasures of the table. He joined the company his father John F. Gilmore founded at the age of 23. Gregory Gilmore had previously studied hospitality management at Davenport and philosophy at the University of Oregon before deciding to accept a management position at The Thornapple. Shortly thereafter, The Thornapple won several prestigious awards, including Grand Rapids Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year award. Over the next three decades, the father and son duo embarked on a series of new ventures that would define the Gilmore Collection as it is known today.
GREG HERBRUCK
President Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch, Saranac
EDUCATION: Davenport University (B), University of Oregon (M) FIRST JOB: Street sweeper at 12 BEST ADVICE: You can watch it happen, you can wonder what happened or you can make it happen. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Performing the Heimlich maneuver on a guest and then ending up choking worse than him after he threw up on my hands. FAVORITE HOBBIES: Skiing, cycling, food and wine, art, reading, travel, music, boating PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Mike Rowe from “Dirty Jobs”
As president and the fourth son born into the family business, Greg Herbruck and his siblings have grown Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch to the largest egg producer in the state. The company has over 9 million laying hens in Michigan and Indiana. Herbruck’s parents started the company in 1958 with 3,000 hens. Herbruck spent his childhood on the farm gathering eggs by hand and putting them in trays for packaging. In the late 1980s, he and his siblings created a system that allowed the farm to reuse waste as organic fertilizer. Since becoming president in 2017, Herbruck has helped the business make other strides in the poultry industry, including supplying eggs to restaurants and retailers across the country. A recent decision ensured a maximum of 5 million caged hens, the others cage-free. Herbruck is making efforts to launch farming operations and education in Zimbabwe and Zambia. EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) FIRST JOB: Ionia County Animal Control FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Too many to consider and they all revolve around chicken manure. HIDDEN TALENT: Pingpong FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Anywhere with natural beauty: rivers, mountains, cool climates BUCKET LIST: Visit Australia and New Zealand FAVORITE CHARITY: Mel Trotter Ministries
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
JEFF LOBDELL
President Restaurant Partners Inc., Grand Rapids
Jeff Lobdell comes from a family of restaurant industry entrepreneurs. His father, Wayne Lobdell, founded Hospitality Restaurant Group, which is a franchisee of 90 YUM Brands, including Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut. As a result, Lobdell had an idea of what the blueprint to success was, and now, it has materialized into him being a multiunit independent restaurant business owner and hospitality executive. Lobdell operates 12 brands within 20 locations and employs 850 people in the greater Grand Rapids and Grand Traverse areas. Some of the restaurants include The Beltline Bar, Sundance Grill, Omelette Shoppe & Bakery, Rockwell Republic, Apache Trout Grill, The Red Geranium Cafe, Noble Restaurant, Grand Coney, Flap Jack Shack, Bagel Beanery, Pete’s Grill & Tavern and Boone’s Prime Time Pub. Lobdell started the business in 1995 with the opening of a bagel bakery and coffee shop in Grand Rapids.
JON O’CONNOR
Co-founder, co-owner Long Road Distillers, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B) BOARDS: National Restaurant Association, Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association and Grand Rapids Police Foundation FIRST JOB: At age 13, I was a cherry picker in Traverse City. HOBBIES: Coaching hockey, playing golf and hockey, watching the Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers games
TONY SARSAM President, CEO SpartanNash
Tony Sarsam has a blend of consumer products and supply chain expertise in the food industry. He was appointed in 2020 to lead SpartanNash’s more than 19,000 associates as the new president and CEO of the Byron Center-based grocery chain. He most recently served as CEO of Borden Dairy Company, where he led business growth and positive trends in a challenging industry. He successfully led Borden through its recent restructuring to position the company for future growth before his departure in 2020. Prior to Borden, Sarsam served as CEO of Ready Pac Foods, delivering a 60% revenue increase in less than five years. Before that, Sarsam served for over 20 years in roles of increasing leadership at PepsiCo before joining Nestlé, where he served for three years as president of Nestlé’s Direct Store Delivery Company, a $4.5 billion pizza and ice cream business.
Long Road Distillers is the first distillery in the history of Grand Rapids. Located in Beer City, USA, Long Road was founded on the belief that world class spirits could be crafted by taking advantage of the abundant agricultural resources and diversity found in West Michigan. O’Connor and his business partner, Kyle Van Strien, have a commitment to doing things the right way — hence the name Long Road; there are no shortcuts. Their commitment to quality in sourcing ingredients, utilizing world class equipment, practicing time-honored processes and, ultimately, being honest with their customers has earned them accolades from across the country for the quality of their spirits. Prior to starting Long Road Distillers, O’Connor owned and operated West Michigan Real Estate Advisors, a residential real estate appraisal and brokerage firm, and he still holds a broker’s license. He currently serves as 1st Ward commissioner in the city of Grand Rapids and previously served one term on the Board of Education for Grand Rapids Public Schools. EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B) HIDDEN TALENT: Handy with all things construction and mechanical TRAVEL DESTINATION: Europe for the history, architecture and food GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Blandford Nature Center TV SHOW: “Mad Men”
ROBERT SCHERMER JR. CEO Meritage Hospitality Group, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Arizona State University (B), Stanford University (M) COVID EXPERIENCE: There have been many heroes in this pandemic. In some cases, entire industries like food manufacturers, grocery retailers and public utility services have made tough decisions to keep our society running. Professions such as health care and first responders have also made courageous decisions to keep us healthy and safe. Other industries, professions and our political leaders could learn a great deal from these heroes.
Robert Schermer Jr. is at the helm of quick-service and casual dining restaurant company Meritage Hospitality Group, which operates 326 restaurants in 16 states under several brands: Wendy’s, Stan Diego, Freighters Eatery & Taproom, Wheelhouse, Twisted Rooster and — its newest offering — Morning Belle, a brunch eatery that opened recently. Meritage has about 10,000 employees and reported 2018 sales of $435.3 million, a year-over-year increase of 39.3% — and up over 1,512% since Schermer joined the company. FIRST JOB: Corporate finance, according to an article on franchising.com. NOTABLE: Schermer in 2016 announced a five-year goal to grow Meritage’s portfolio from 164 to 285 restaurants, a target it has long since passed. Last June, Meritage pledged to build 40 new Wendy’s restaurants by 2024. Last August, it acquired 10 more Wendy’s, and in September, it acquired another five. TRIVIA: Schermer collaborated with John Wheeler on the development of Arena Place downtown, which then became the new headquarters for Meritage and several other commercial tenants.
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YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR SUCCESS.
Grand Rapids 200 honoree Doug Small leads an organization dedicated to increasing business and leisure travel to Grand Rapids/Kent County – and he would like to thank everyone who makes his job easier by making this community a great place to visit!
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Top 25 U.S. Convention City
1 of 7 Places to Go Worldwide
MeetingSource.com, 2021
JetSetter Magazine, 2020
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
CRAIG SMITH
COO RedWater Restaurant Group, Grand Rapids
MIKE STEVENS
Co-founder, CEO Founders Brewing Co., Grand Rapids
RedWater Restaurant Group operates seven golf courses and eight restaurants in West Michigan. During peak season, the company employs approximately 1,000 people. Craig Smith has been heading up RedWater Restaurant Group for the last 12 years. When he arrived, the company had two golf courses and one restaurant. Its eateries now include Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant, Cork Wine & Grille, FireRock Grille, Gravity Taphouse Grille, RedRock Grille, Reds at Thousand Oaks, Rush Creek Bistro and Vintage Prime & Seafood. Prior to RedWater, Smith was vice president of people and process for Workstage. Smith also held executive positions at Steelcase and Gordon Food Service.
KRIS SPAULDING
President, owner Brewery Vivant and Broad Leaf Local Beer, Grand Rapids
As the president of Brewery Vivant and Broad Leaf Local Beer, Kris Spaulding manages the people and planet aspects of the company’s triple bottom line focus in addition to the daily operations. She was the driving force in the pursuit of the company’s LEED and B Corporation certifications and is an advocate for businesses engaging with their community in a meaningful and impactful way. Spaulding plays an active role in numerous local organizations and advisory boards, has served on the Sustainability Subcommittee for the national Brewers Association and has been named one of the 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan for multiple years. She also is a founding member of the MI Restaurant Promise.
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Aquinas College (M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “The spouting whale gets the harpoon” Bob Pew, Steelcase chair. It means don’t put yourself or your company on a pedestal. Just silently go about your work and let it speak for itself. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: I was about to give a speech at a very large company breakfast meeting. I was in line getting coffee and just raised my cup up to take a drink as someone backed right into me and spilled the entire cup down the front of my white shirt. It was uncomfortable and not very flattering when I got up to speak to the group.
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Grand Valley State University (M) LESSON LEARNED: I continually learn that no matter how much we each do personally or professionally, we cannot please everyone. This is especially tough for self-perfectionists like me
Founders Brewing Co. has made its distinctive mark on the craft beer community by brewing complex ales with big aromatics and flavor. It is one of the fastest-growing craft breweries in the nation, currently ranking among the top 10 largest breweries in the U.S. The brewery has received numerous awards from the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival, and its beers often are rated among the best in the world by RateBeer and BeerAdvocate users. Stevens met co-founder Dave Engbers in college and, in 1997, with the mantra of “no regrets,” they put together a business plan and opened the brewery. The company has seen its annual barrel output nearly double each of the last seven years. A current expansion project will bump the brewery’s capacity to 900,000 barrels shipped when complete. Founders is available in all 50 states and around the world.
Kyle VanStrien is the co-owner and co-founder of Grand Rapids’ first distillery, Long Road Distillers. In November 2014, he and business partner Jon O’Connor began planning Long Road Distillers with the goal of crafting world-class spirits from local ingredients in the city they call home. Long Road has been recognized as “The Best Specialty Craft Spirits Distillery in the U.S.” (USA Today) and received numerous “Best in Show” and “Best in Class” awards from international spirits competitions (San Francisco, New York, Berlin, etc.). VanStrien serves as the chair of the Grand Rapids Planning Commission and as a mentor for the Cook Leadership Academy at Grand Valley State University.
FAVORITE BOOK: “Double Bind: Women on Ambition,” by Robin Romm. It is a thought-provoking collection of essays by female writers about the word ambition and what it means to them. I recommend it to every woman I know. BUCKET LIST: I would love to take a few months to either travel the country in an RV with my family or live in a different country with them.
KYLE VANSTRIEN
Co-owner, co-founder Long Road Distillers, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) FIRST JOB: Started a TV show that aired on the Fox network throughout Michigan called “Midwest Flycasters,” featuring fly fishing throughout the Midwest with me as host. BEST ADVICE: Sound business decisions come from a focus on brand (your product) and culture (your soul). Allow these elements to guide you in planning and bottom-line performance becomes merely a byproduct of making the right decisions.
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), Grand Valley State University (M) COVID STORY: We closed our doors, started making hand sanitizer, began providing take-out of canned cocktails and cocktail kits to-go, opened outdoor seating in all locations for the first time ever, reopened indoors with strict social distancing and safeguards, closed again, shifted back to take-out and retail focus, reopened in the spring, added a new location in Cadillac and moved one location from Boyne to Charlevoix, raised our base pay and began offering mental health services for our team. It’s been a whirlwind, and we’re not over the hurdle yet.
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
TAMI VANDENBERG Co-owner, co-founder The Meanwhile/ The Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids
Tami VandenBerg is a business owner, community activist, gardener, traveler and mother. She is the co-owner and co-founder of The Meanwhile Bar and The Pyramid Scheme — two popular gathering spaces in the city. She has been an outspoken advocate for human rights in West Michigan and a leader in sustainability — both businesses have solar power and generate very little waste. She has been active in the areas of ending homelessness, women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, criminal justice reform and drug policy reform. VandenBerg previously ran the nonprofit Well House for five years. Using harm reduction and housing-first models, 200 people were moved off the street and into formerly vacant and boarded-up homes. She also is a leader in cannabis policy reform — playing an instrumental role in Decriminalize GR as well as passing Proposal 1. She is a board member of MILegalize and co-founder and co-chair of the West Michigan Cannabis Guild.
FOUNDATIONS & PHILANTHROPY
BRETT VANDERKAMP President New Holland Brewing Company, Holland
EDUCATION: Hope College (B), Siebel Institute of Technology (diploma short course) BIRTHPLACE: Akron, Ohio SIGNATURE BEER: Dragon’s Milk BOARDS: Samaritas; formerly Holland Chamber of Commerce, Jubilee Ministries, Michigan Brewers Guild government affairs committee POLITICS: Lost bid in the August 2010 state senate primary for the 30th District as a “liberty-minded Republican” PASTIME: Discussing politics over beer FOUNDING PARTNER: Jason Spaulding, who later founded Brewery Vivant
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B) BEST ADVICE: Results matter more than effort; imperfect action is better than the perfect plan. HOBBIES: Gardening, traveling, fitness, yoga, music, reading TRAVEL DESTINATION: Amsterdam, New Orleans and Havana FAVORITE CHARITY: The Grand Rapids Red Project, The Diatribe, Realism is Loyalty and GROW
RICH WOLOWSKI
President, CEO Gordon Food Service, Grand Rapids
Gordon Food Service is a multibillion-dollar, privately held and family managed foodservice distribution company with operations in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to his leadership position, Rich Wolowski also holds a seat on the Gordon Food Service board. He is responsible for leading the North American Senior Leadership Team, which includes all aspects of Gordon Food Service in the U.S. and Canada. Wolowski has been with the company since 2004, holding such positions as director of program sales, general manager of the Central States Division, senior manager of U.S. national accounts sales/distribution and COO. He is a board member of the International Foodservice Distributors Association and Markon Cooperative Inc.
At age 24, Brett VanderKamp and a business partner started New Holland Brewing Company in 1996. After drinking “too many” craft beers in his post-college days in Colorado, VanderKamp said he realized microbreweries could be more than a hobby. Now, with nearly 500 employees, New Holland’s craft beer and spirits are sold across the country. Beginning as a brewery, the company added distillery operations in 2005. The company has two full-service restaurants, a spirits tasting room, two brick-and-mortar stores and an online store. VanderKamp opened The Knickerbocker location in Grand Rapids in 2016 and the tasting room in Saugatuck in 2019.
STACIE BEHLER
Group vice president, public affairs and communication; executive director Meijer Inc.; Meijer Foundation
TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Leading through COVID has been my toughest career challenge. Reacting to the unknowns without clarity, employee safety, rapid decision making, transparency, and preparing for the new future required new muscles. I am deeply proud of our people at Gordon Food Service, who rallied around every obstacle while caring for each other and our customers. HOBBIES: Fly-fishing and golf ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Dream big and don’t let anyone tell you that you shouldn’t chase your dream. Also, don’t forget to call Mom every Sunday.
At Meijer, the Walker-based grocery chain with annual sales of over $22 billion, Stacie Behler has oversight of five state Meijer political action committees and manages the company’s political involvement and state and federal policy work. Behler also directs all of Meijer Inc.’s community and philanthropic work, investing more than 6% of the company’s annual net profit back into the communities throughout the Midwest where Meijer stores are located. In addition, she manages all internal and external communications, including media relations and community, collegiate and professional sports partnerships and promotions. Her work with the Meijer Foundation includes assisting its trustees in their engagement and investments in arts, education, health and economic development of communities in Michigan. Behler originally joined Meijer in 2001 as senior legal counsel. EDUCATION: Oakland University (B), University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana (JD) GREATEST CAREER ACHIEVEMENT: Transitioning from the legal field into continuously broader roles and responsibilities within one of the largest companies and foundations in the state; translating the business skills and leadership I have into membership, then leadership, of the largest nonprofit organizations in West Michigan.
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FOUNDATIONS & PHILANTHROPY
CHERI DEVOS
Founder CDV5, Grand Rapids
Cheri DeVos is the founder of CDV5, a management, real estate and investment firm. The company owns and/or operates private development properties, commercial properties and several businesses, including the Michigan Sports Academies (MSA), various properties and projects supporting the expansion of Ada Village, the Ottawa Beach General Store and the Ada Village General Store. DeVos also is a member of the board of directors at RDV Corporation, is founder of the CDV5 Foundation and recently retired from the board of directors at Amway after 20 years of service. She previously served as Amway’s vice president of corporate affairs and the director of health and beauty marketing.
MIKE GOORHOUSE
President, CEO The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area, Holland
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), Grand Valley State University (M) FIRST JOB: Mawby Internship at the Council of Michigan Foundations BEST ADVICE: Communication is not what you say, but what the other person hears. So be sure to understand how other people are hearing you, especially in the relationships you care about the most. DOWNTIME: With young children, “downtime” is literally “down” time on the floor playing cars, reading books and learning how to crawl. HIDDEN TALENT: My wife and I used to host Latin dancing parties at our house. Bachata and merengue are my favorite styles. PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Daniel Radcliffe
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) FIRST JOB: Day camp counselor at Park Township in Holland BEST ADVICE: While it’s almost cliché now, my dad’s “You can do it” phrase is still my go-to. His positive attitude was unending. He would always share a smile, a word of optimism and hope. DOWNTIME: Spending time with our kids, our family and our friends is most important to us, and any free time is devoted to them. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Right now, we find ourselves visiting the Wealthy Street area ... there is a vibrancy there that is instantly recognizable.
HOLLY JOHNSON
President Frey Foundation, Grand Rapids
Holly Johnson was named president of the Frey Foundation in August 2018. She leads the Frey team and directs a grantmaking program awarding more than $6 million annually to organizations throughout West and Northern Michigan. Johnson spent her career in community-based philanthropy. She previously led campaign efforts at Greater Ottawa County United Way and held leadership roles at Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, serving as vice president of development and president. Johnson lives in downtown Grand Rapids and enjoys time on the lakeshore in Spring Lake as well. She is married to Erick, and they have two adult children — Madelynn and Ian.
Mike Goorhouse became president and CEO of The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area in 2014 after serving two years as its vice president of donor development. Prior to that, he worked for six years at the Council of Michigan Foundations, providing member services to family foundations, community foundations and youth grant makers. His most notable accomplishments during his time at CFHZ include successfully completing a $35 million unrestricted endowment campaign — including 100 new estate gift commitments — and co-launching a multisector collaborative effort to significantly improve the affordability of local housing options.
DIANA SIEGER
President Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Hillsdale College (B), Grand Valley State University (M) FIRST JOB: Scooping ice cream at Temptations in Grand Haven BEST ADVICE: In life and career, you can have it all — just not at the same time. COVID EXPERIENCE: I have learned that self-care is not a luxury. In order to care for others, we must care for ourselves. ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: Give everyone grace. We all have some junk in our baggage. FAVORITE GR ATTRACTION: I love our downtown, Frederik Meijer Gardens, the Downtown Market, Rosa Parks Circle, Fulton Market and our many ethnically diverse grocery stores.
Diana Sieger has been in her current role for 34 years. Under her leadership, the foundation’s assets have grown from $35 million to $360 million. Her professional and community activities include currently serving on the boards of the Office of Foundation Liaison for the governor’s office and on the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority. Sieger also is a former board and executive committee member for the Council on Foundations and past board chair for the Council of Michigan Foundations. Some other honors include being named one of the “50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan” six times by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as well as one of Crain’s Detroit’s 100 Most Influential Women in Michigan in 2016. EDUCATION: Western Michigan University (B, M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Maya Angelou HOBBIES: I have collected many pieces of contemporary art. I enjoy going to art fairs and galleries around the world. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: When I started here in 1987, I was determined that I wouldn’t make mistakes, which was my first mistake. FAVORITE DESTINATION: Italy, I’ve traveled there eight times. FAVORITE ATTRACTION: Grand Rapids Art Museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Bette Midler or Goldie Hawn
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FOUNDATIONS & PHILANTHROPY
LA JUNE MONTGOMERY TABRON President, CEO W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Battle Creek
DANIEL WILLIAMS President, CEO Steelcase Foundation
After 26 years of promotions at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, La June Montgomery Tabron began as president and CEO in 2014. The Kellogg Foundation has the most assets of any foundation in West Michigan, reporting $8.25 billion in 2017. It has funded numerous organizations and initiatives in Michigan, the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and southern Africa. Among those grants are $24 million total in 2017 to organizations to help fight racism in Michigan and across the country. EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Northwestern University (M) FIRST JOB: Attendance taker at a summer program in Detroit at age 14, making $2.75 per hour BEST ADVICE: Early in my career, Norm Brown, previous Kellogg Foundation president, coached me after a meeting by saying, “Think about your approach.” We’d just come from a meeting where I was very direct, maybe too straightforward for the Ph.D.s in the room. He encouraged me to think about the group and their interests, and keep the focus on what we were trying to accomplish. Norm helped me to see that an approach is critical to getting the work done. LESSON LEARNED: If we want our children to have the communities they deserve, the racial equity journey is an essential process.
A leader in urban education and facilitator in equity-centered design, Williams works to advance justice through education and community engagement. Prior to his role as president and CEO of the Steelcase Foundation, he led WMCAT, where he worked to bring equity and innovation to West Michigan, the state of Michigan, and on national level as well. Prior to that, he was co-founder and principal of Grand Rapids University Prep Academy, the first “Centers of Innovation” School in Grand Rapids Public Schools. In addition to participating on a number of boards and initiatives, in 2020 he was elected to serve as a member of the GRCC Board of Trustees. In 2018, Williams was appointed by then-Gov. Rick Snyder to join the Michigan Consortium of Advanced Networks, and in 2019, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appointed him as vice-chairperson of the MI-STEM Council. He has been recognized with the Trust Award from the Better Business Bureau of West Michigan, named the GRBJ’s 40 under 40 Distinguished Alumni, and honored with the Phyllis Scott Activist Award by the Woodrick Center for Diversity at Grand Rapids Community College in 2017 — one of the annual Giants Awards presented in the region.
HEALTH CARE
MARK VAN PUTTEN President, CEO The Wege Foundation, Grand Rapids
Prior to joining The Wege Foundation, Mark Van Putten spent 13 years as president of ConservationStrategy LLC, a philanthropic advisory firm specializing in environmental and natural resources. He previously had served for 21 years on the staff of Washington D.C.-based National Wildlife Federation — America’s largest membership-based conservation organization — including nearly eight years as president and CEO. Van Putten also was the founder of the University of Michigan’s Environmental Law Clinic. On the 30th anniversary of the federal Clean Water Act, he was recognized as one of 30 people nationwide named “Clean Water Heroes.” EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), University of Michigan School of Law (J.D.) FIRST JOB: Busboy/dishwasher at Ponderosa Steakhouse BEST ADVICE: My grandfather told me, “Nothing’s as easy as it looks and everything takes longer than you think.” FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Giving a lecture on the first day of classes to two students who, like me, had misread the schedule and went to the wrong classroom. LESSON LEARNED: There is no such thing as loyalty to institutions, only to other people. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I worked for several years as a carpenter. FAVORITE BOOK: “Midnight’s Children” by Salman Rushdie
DR. KENNETH BERKOVITZ Senior VP/Ministry Market Executive Ascension Michigan, Warren
EDUCATION: University of Iowa (B), Eastern Michigan University (M), Creighton University (Ph.D.)
Kenneth Berkovitz, MD, FACC is responsible for leading Ascension Michigan’s 16 hospitals and hundreds of related health care facilities that together employ over 23,000 associates. Ascension Michigan provided over $311 million in community benefit and care of persons living in poverty in fiscal year 2020. A strategic clinical and administrative leader, Berkovitz believes in achieving desired outcomes through collaboration, a patient-centric focus and a servant leader mindset. A board-certified cardiologist and diplomate in interventional cardiology, prior to this role, Berkovitz served as president of Ascension Medical Group-Michigan, a clinically integrated multispecialty group of nearly 1,200 providers serving almost 600,000 patients. As a practicing cardiologist, Berkovitz received numerous service excellence awards and was recognized for consistently performing above the 90th percentile nationally in HCAHPs inpatient scores. EDUCATION: Purdue University (B), Vanderbilt University School of Medicine (MD) COVID STORY: The dedication, commitment and service our associates and care providers have exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic is truly awe-inspiring.
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HEALTH CARE
TASHA BLACKMON
President, CEO Cherry Health, Grand Rapids
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Tasha Blackmon serves as president and CEO of Michigan’s largest Federally Qualified Health Center, Cherry Health. Cherry Health provides integrated health care services in Barry, Eaton, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Ottawa and Wayne counties. Blackmon is responsible for oversight of Cherry Health’s network of more than 20 locations, over 800 employees, and more than 60 physicians and mid-level providers specializing in primary care and family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, obstetrics/gynecology, optometry, oral health, behavioral health and substance use disorders. During her 15-plus years with Cherry Health, Blackmon has championed health justice through aggressively disrupting health care disparities. Her experience comes from an operational perspective, having established high standards of care and developed integrated health care systems that treat an individual’s health needs holistically, rather than symptomatically. Blackmon has led numerous large-scale expansion and development projects and held six positions within Cherry Health before becoming president and CEO in 2018.
MINA BREUKER
President, CEO Holland Home, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B), Aquinas College (M), Mercy Central School of Nursing (RN) FIRST JOB: Picking blueberries. I remember the day we got 10 cents per pound, and I was averaging 100 pounds per day. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE STORY: First time I had to administer a rectal tube — just saying, when told to place something on the end of the tube, don’t use a rubber glove. HIDDEN TALENT: I can locate veins of water on your property with two wire hangers. Anyone need to drill a well? FAVORITE HOBBIES: Fishing with my husband, gardening, reading, bird watching, cooking, baking and entertaining BEST GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: The Grand River
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Cornerstone University (MA) BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED: Lead with love BUCKET LIST: To visit the Door of No Return in Africa.
ROBERT CASALOU
President, CEO Trinity Health Michigan, Grand Rapids/Muskegon
Robert Casalou is the first regional president and CEO of Trinity Health Michigan, which was formed when Trinity’s Mercy Health System in West Michigan and Trinity’s Saint Joseph Mercy Health System (SJMHS) in southeast Michigan came together to form one statewide health system in January 2018. He joined SJMHS in 2008 as president and CEO of St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor and Livingston hospitals. In 2015, he was named regional president and CEO of SJMHS, comprised of five hospitals, six cancer centers, five ambulatory care centers, more than 2,700 physicians and 14,000 employees. Casalou is a board member of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan, American Hospital Association and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. He is board chair of the American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board 5 and Together Health Network.
As president and CEO, Mina Breuker supports multiple residential and health care entities that serve the greater West Michigan community, including Holland Home, Faith Hospice, Atrio Home Care and Reliance Community Care Partners. A servant leader, Breuker helps her team tend to the living and health care needs of more than 6,000 people per day. With a background in nursing, she has a unique understanding of the day-to-day needs of those in their care. Keeping health, safety and the mission of the organization at the forefront, she helped lead Christian Living Services and Holland Home to $158.8M in revenue in 2020.
ANTHONY CHANG
Founder, CEO Bold Advanced Medical Future (BAMF) Health, Grand Rapaids
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B, M) FIRST JOB: Automotive sales representative in a family-owned business for eight years FAVORITE QUOTE: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill FAVORITE HOBBIES: Founded and currently serves as the captain of the Team Joe’s Cycling Team TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Watching my dad suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.
Anthony Chang came to Grand Rapids in 2010 and chose to start his business here because he was attracted to the vision behind the Medical Mile. BAMF is dedicated to building a nationwide infrastructure to make a novel molecular imaging and molecular targeted radiation therapy available and affordable to all patients. The startup has a technology that allows it to see tumors that no other current tools can catch. BAMF harnesses AI to streamline diagnosis and treatment from several weeks or months to a same-day process. BAMF is expected to open in 2022 in the Doug Meijer Innovation Building on MSU’s downtown campus. EDUCATION: Chang Gung University (B), University of Texas-San Antonio (Ph.D.) HONORS: Outstanding Alumni Award from Chang Gung University (2016), Grand Rapids Business Journal 40 under 40 (2016), Henry Dunant Global Impact Award from the American Red Cross (2017), commissioner to the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (2017), speaker at World Molecular Imaging Conference, American Association of Cancer Research annual conference and Society of Nuclear Medicine meetings, current adjunct faculty to Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
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HEALTH CARE
TINA FREESE DECKER
President, CEO Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids
Tina Freese Decker is the president and CEO of Spectrum Health System. Her collaborative, strategic and visionary leadership is driven by the organization’s mission: to improve health, inspire hope and save lives. With this focus, Freese Decker is passionately committed to the communities and members served and she has helped evolve Spectrum Health into an expansive, $8.3 billion integrated health system with physician practices, a health plan and 14 hospitals employing 31,000-plus team members. She is the recipient of numerous national and local awards, including Modern Healthcare’s 2021 and 2019 Top 25 Women Leaders in Healthcare, Crain’s Detroit Business’ 2019 Health Care Heroes award, 2018 Most Notable Women in Health Care and Managed Healthcare Executive’s 10 Emerging Healthcare Industry Leaders 2018. She is the current chair of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association, incoming member of the American Hospital Association board of trustees, immediate past chair of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids and participates on additional local boards.
MARK EASTBURG
President, CEO Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids
Mark Eastburg, Ph.D., is president and CEO of Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, a position he has held since 2006. Eastburg has held a number of clinical and administrative leadership positions since joining Pine Rest in 1991, including director of the Pine Rest Family Institute, director of research and psycho oncology at the Cancer Center at Mercy Health Saint Mary’s in Grand Rapids and corporate director of Pine Rest’s Outpatient Clinic Network. He also served as director of mission effectiveness, director of new program development, and is the founder of the Psychological Consultation Center. Eastburg is a clinical psychologist and maintains a small clinical practice. He also serves on the board of directors for the Michigan Hospital Association. EDUCATION: Wheaton College (B), Fuller Graduate School of Psychology (Ph.D.)
EDUCATION: Iowa State University (B), University of Iowa (M, MHA) HOBBIES: Reading and traveling
DR. PETER HAHN
President, CEO Metro Health-University of Michigan Health, Wyoming
Dr. Peter Hahn is a senior physician leader with experience in service line development, strategic planning, physician engagement and quality improvement. He has national-level expertise in health care policy, reimbursement and regulatory issues. In addition to his role as president and CEO of Metro Health-University of Michigan Health, he has held several national and regional health care leadership roles, including president of the Oregon Society of Critical Care Medicine and founder and head of the northwest section of the American Association for Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology. Hahn has published extensively and lectured and presented on numerous health care topics.
ADAM LONDON
Administrative Health Officer Kent County Health Department
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), University of Tennessee (M), Michigan State University (M.D.), Mayo Clinic (residencies and fellowships) FIRST JOB: Public Health Library at the University of Michigan HIDDEN TALENT: I play the violin. I was taught at a young age and can still play well. HOBBIES: Soccer, reading and watching classical performances BUCKET LIST: Seeing an opera at the La Scala Opera House in Milan, Italy FAVORITE QUOTE: “If you don’t ask the question, the answer is always no.”
Adam London has been on the front lines of West Michigan’s most notorious public health crises over the past few years, including opioid overdoses, suicide, lead poisoning, PFAS and now COVID-19. “These crises have taught me that we need a broader perspective on public health. We should view these crises as threats to our national safety and security,” he said. “All systems need to be engaged in prevention and solutions.” London grew up in Big Rapids and is a lifelong resident of the Great Lakes State. He has worked in local public health since the 1990s and has been serving as the administrative health officer of the Kent County Health Department since 2013. London also teaches courses in public administration and health at GVSU, MSU and the University of Michigan. EDUCATION: Ferris State University (B), Grand Valley State University (M), Walden University (Ph.D) FIRST JOB: Delivering the Grand Rapids Press. I learned lots of important lessons about pedaling uphill while carrying a heavy load. Also, avoid angry dogs. All skills that still serve me well. INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: Psalm 118, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.” FAVORITE GR ATTRACTION: The John Ball Zoo and Meijer Gardens are magical places that mean a lot to me and my family, but there’s no place I’d rather be in GR than rooting for the Whitecaps or the Griffins.
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Congratulations, Tina. Your courage and vision are inspiring.
Thanks to your leadership, our community is stronger, healthier and more committed to creating a better future for all. Congratulations on being named one of Grand Rapids’ most influential leaders.
Tina Freese Decker, President & CEO Spectrum Health System
For This
Improve health, inspire hope and save lives.™
Exact Moment
Enhanced Psychiatric Urgent Care for Adults. When life becomes overwhelming, you can get same-day help. Experts at our Psychiatric Urgent Care Center are available daily for walk-in and virtual appointments. Call 616.455.9200 today!
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A PROUD LEGACY
A BOLD FUTURE PETER HAHN, MD, MBA President & Chief Executive Officer University of Michigan Health-West Michigan Medicine
We are proud to have a bold leader whose relentless pursuit of excellence is redefining care. Join us in congratulating Dr. Peter Hahn for being recognized as one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 200 most powerful business leaders.
Congrats to Michigan Software Labs on the opening of your new office in Ada.
7471 River Street Ada, Michigan 49301 | www.michiganlabs.com | 616-594-0269
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HEALTH CARE
BILL MANNS
President, CEO Bronson Healthcare
As a young man, Bill Manns was inspired to “be a man for others.” “I attended The University of Detroit Jesuit High School, and the Jesuits encouraged us all to be ‘Men for Others’ and to remember that we were all put here for a purpose and that it’s not for our own self-aggrandizement but rather to help others,” Manns said. He was appointed president of Bronson Health in January 2020, having previously served as president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s. As Bronson’s senior executive, he oversees a full range of services from primary care to critical care across more than 100 locations. From 1996 to 2005, Manns held administrative roles in operations at St. John Detroit Riverview and St. John Providence in Detroit, where he was promoted to COO and EVP in 2003. He was named one of the Top 25 Innovators in 2021 by Modern Healthcare. His current professional memberships include the National Association of Healthcare Executives, the American College of Healthcare Executives, and an appointment by the governor of Michigan to the Public Health Advisory Council.
MARK MEIJER
President Life EMS Ambulance, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Aquinas College (B) BOARDS: Meijer Inc., Van Andel Institute, Great Lakes Protection Fund, Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services FIRST JOB: Working in Meijer store stocking shelves, bringing in carts, etc., at age 11 HIDDEN TALENT: I wish I had some talent, let alone a hidden one FAVORITE MOVIE: “Dr. Strangelove” ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Experience the dignity of work and look for job/career that will provide fulfillment. A general college degree is not for all. BUCKET LIST: Riding in Air Force One
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B, M) FIRST JOB: My first memorable job was working at the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office in Detroit. I saw a lot and it both changed and shaped me for the rest of my life. HOBBIES: I love cars. I love restoring them, working on them, detailing them ... you name it.
KENT RIDDLE
President, CEO Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids
You might not expect an engineer to be at the helm of one of the nation’s largest rehabilitation systems. After graduating from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering and business, Kent Riddle’s career followed a likely track: commercial and industrial real estate development, building design, and global mergers and acquisitions in over two dozen countries. His professional path realigned in 2002 when his wife, Susan, suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car crash and recovered at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. A short time later, Riddle joined the hospital board and he was invited to become CEO in 2011. Riddle’s entrepreneurial leadership has transformed Mary Free Bed. He has led a $180 million investment in growing the main Grand Rapids campus and expanding to 33 cities (and counting) throughout Michigan and Indiana. The number of patient beds has more than quadrupled, employees have tripled and the medical group has more than 50 board-certified rehabilitation doctors. The Rehabilitation Network has 38 acute-care hospital members, and the Mary Free Bed Foundation has raised more than $30 million.
Life EMS Ambulance has operations in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ionia and Allegan, as well as Newaygo, Lake, Mason, Oceana and Van Buren counties. Life EMS began providing ambulance service early in 1980 with initially just one used vehicle licensed for service. This spartan beginning has since evolved into one of the most respected pre-hospital care providers anywhere in the country. This is demonstrated in part by the fact that Life EMS of Grand Rapids and Life EMS of Kalamazoo were two of the first 17 ambulance operations from across the country, and the first in West Michigan, to become fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS).
DALE SOWDERS
President, CEO Holland Hospital, Holland
EDUCATION: Purdue University (B) FAVORITE BOOK: “A Prayer for Owen Meany,” by John Irving, because it’s the only book that’s made me laugh out loud
Dale Sowders has led Holland Hospital as president and CEO since 2002, joining the hospital in 1999. Under his leadership, Holland Hospital has earned national recognition as one of the country’s leading hospitals in quality, satisfaction and value. The CMS Five-Star hospital also has consistently received top ratings from its employees as one of the nation’s 101 Best and Brightest Places to Work For and earned the West Michigan award for 18 years. Sowders previously served in an executive capacity with Evanston Hospital Corporation in Chicago. His board work and community service includes roles with the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Grand Valley State University’s Health Advisory Board, Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Hospital Association, Priority Health and the Community Foundation of the Holland/ Zeeland Area. Sowders continues to guide the hospital’s dedicated medical staff, employees and volunteers through the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the health and safety of the community, now and well into the future. EDUCATION: Ohio State University (B, M) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Limiting success by waiting too long to ask for help HOBBIES: Fishing, hunting and hiking ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Don’t let someone make you a smaller version of yourself
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Knowing your community leads to growing your community.
Confidence comes with every card.®
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network would like to recognize our own Jeffrey L . Connolly, senior vice president and president, West Michigan and Upper Peninsula, for once again being named to the Grand Rapids 200. His commitment to our company and the Michigan communities he serves is a shining example of what great leadership can do. We congratulate him and the other esteemed members of this year's list.
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HEALTH CARE
DAVID VAN ANDEL Chairman, CEO Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids
David Van Andel is chairman and CEO of Van Andel Institute. He also is an entrepreneur involved in several other business interests in the natural and life science products industries. The son of Jay Van Andel, founder of Van Andel Institute and co-founder of Amway Corporation, he is currently a member of Amway’s board of directors and serves on its executive, governance and audit committees. Prior to leading Van Andel Institute, he had been in various positions at Amway since 1977, including chief operating officer of Amway’s Pyxis Innovations Business Unit, and was senior vice president-Americas and Europe, overseeing Amway business activities in North America and 22 European and 11 Latin American affiliates. Van Andel played a prominent role in bringing professional hockey back to Grand Rapids in 1996. He is co-owner and chairman of the Grand Rapids Griffins, an American Hockey League team. He is active in numerous business, cultural and community organizations including The Right Place and the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. Van Andel is married and has four children and one grandchild.
INSURANCE
SHELLEYE YAKLIN
President, CEO North Ottawa Community Health System, Grand Haven
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) COVID EXPERIENCE: COVID reemphasized the 3 Fs — faith, family and friends — for me. Refocusing on what is truly important and minimizing the distractions that tend to fill our lives.
STEVE ZUIDERVEEN
President, CEO Sunset Retirement Communities and Services, Jenison
Following a term of missionary service in Nigeria, Steve Zuiderveen began a career in finance/accounting for a national information technology company, reaching the position of director of operations. But with a passion for serving senior citizens, he began a new career as a nursing home administrator and regional manager. He joined Sunset in 2007, first serving as an administrator and CFO before ascending to the top spot. Sunset is a Christian, nonprofit organization that provides senior care through Brookcrest (skilled nursing, rehab and memory care), Manor & Villages (independent/assisted living and memory care), Rose Garden (assisted living) and Waterford Place (independent/assisted living and memory care).
With dual health care experience leading both large for-profits and community-based nonprofits, the pull toward a smaller, more familial setting drew Shelleye Yaklin to North Ottawa Community Health System (NOCHS), where she has served as president and CEO for the last 14 years. She has successfully led the independent health system through seismic industry shifts, one (now two) major recessions, as well as consistently changing market dynamics while never losing sight of its mission, ensuring hyper-local access to the highest quality care. Under Yaklin’s leadership, the health system has strategically kept pace, and in some cases out-paced, tertiary neighbors with technological investments at the hospital bedside, in the operating rooms, and in connecting the system’s clinics to patients at home. In 2019, she accepted recognition on behalf of the health system for its centennial anniversary, when the community as a whole celebrated NOCHS’s founding during the Spanish Flu pandemic, as well as its decades of contributions to the community’s exceptional, nationally ranked quality of life. EDUCATION: Indiana Wesleyan University (B, M) FIRST JOB: During college, I worked as an accountant/assistant to the CFO of Hillsdale Hospital. It turned out this exposure to hospital operations would alter my expected career path
JEFFREY CONNOLLY SVP and president, West Michigan and Upper Peninsula Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B), Western Michigan University (M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.” C.S. Lewis FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: A resident in one of our communities had fallen and it resulted in a large bruise from his waist to his knee. As he is telling us the story by the main reception desk, he proceeded to show us a picture that his wife had taken sans clothing. I would have just taken his word for it. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Be intentional about your future, but don’t try to have everything figured out.
Jeffrey Connolly is responsible for growth and profitability, delivery of high-quality services to consumers, and developing and implementing strategic plans for the health plan business division, West Michigan and Upper Peninsula, of BCBSM. From 2005-06, Connolly was president and CEO of Aetna’s Midwest Network Access Business. He also held other executive and senior roles at various organizations in the past 30 years. Connolly serves on the boards for Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, West Michigan Policy Forum, Covenant House and Grand Valley State University’s Health Advisory Board. He is a member of the CEO Council for Talent 2025 and is a financial supporter of the Arthritis Foundation, United Way, Covenant House, Catholic Charities, March of Dimes, NAACP, Girl Scouts, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids and Alzheimer’s Association. EDUCATION: Central Michigan University (B) FIRST JOB: CPA for Deloitte & Touche LESSON LEARNED: At the birth of each of my children, I was flooded with every emotion possible of the magnitude of responsibility I was graced with as their father. The lesson for me was to enjoy the ride with each of them because it goes way too fast. LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS: I have a twin brother, and I enjoy classic car repair. PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Tom Selleck, my favorite actor
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We’re helping people get better. Better access to affordable, quality care across Michigan. Better costs on procedures and prescriptions. Better ways to stay engaged in their health. And, as we continue working toward our vision and values, we believe things will only get—you guessed it—better.
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INSURANCE
THOMAS HELMSTETTER Managing partner Lighthouse Group, Grand Rapids
Thomas Helmstetter has led full-service insurance broker Lighthouse Group since he was a founding member in 1995. The company was acquired in late 2020 by Illinois-based Alera Group, which is a privately held insurance firm with more than 90 locations in the U.S. The acquisition of Lighthouse Group marks Alera’s entry into the Michigan market. Lighthouse has seven office locations, 200 employees and services a 23-state geographic footprint. With over 40 years of industry experience, Helmstetter has held many advisory board positions and strategic leadership roles to support carrier partners, industry growth and development, and community initiatives. He operates under the belief that businesses should always be giving back to the communities they serve and with that mindset, the Lighthouse Group team has volunteered over 1,000 hours to local nonprofits in the past year alone. In addition to his philanthropic commitment, he leads his team in innovation, authenticity and a “people-first” business model that has set Lighthouse Group apart as one of West Michigan’s top insurance brokers.
LAW
PRAVEEN THADANI President Priority Health
EDUCATION: Illinois Institute of Technology (B) FIRST JOB: Short order cook at a sandwich shop BEST ADVICE: Always assume everyone has positive intentions GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Downtown Riverwalk
GREG WILLIAMS
President, CEO Acrisure LLC, Caledonia
As co-founder, president and chief executive officer, Greg Williams has successfully led Acrisure to become one of the largest global insurance brokers. Under his leadership, Acrisure has had a compounded annual growth rate of over 80% since its inception in 2005 and eclipsed $2 billion in revenue in 2019. Acrisure is now one of the top 10 largest insurance brokers in the world and the most profitable insurance broker compared to its peers. In 2016, Williams led a management buyout of Acrisure’s private equity investor in a $2.9 billion transaction. As a result, the company is now majority-owned (85%) by Acrisure’s employees and its agency partners, with board control as well. Prior to founding Acrisure, Williams was a board adviser to a variety of companies and was a vice president for Michigan National Corporation (MNC), a $19 billion bank holding company. As a senior executive at MNC, he managed the Commercial Sales and Services Group, was a member of the Corporate Marketing Committee and chaired the Corporate Operations Committee.
Praveen Thadani took over as president of Priority Health in 2021. Priority Health offers a broad portfolio of health benefits options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. Thadani’s 25-year health care career includes experience managing consumer, commercial and government health plan products. Thadani brings a successful background in services and programs that manage medical costs, development of value-based provider programs, new product development, plan innovation and unique market programs. Early in his career, he helped develop a patented insurance platform, Interactive Health Insurance System, that was designed to activate consumer decision-making at the point of service. Prior to joining Priority Health, Thadani held a variety of leadership roles with Humana, most recently serving as senior vice president of strategy, product and medical cost. In this role, he was responsible for leading strategic planning for multiple lines of business. Thadani led a multiyear commercial strategy that resulted in significant growth for the company, as well as the launch of a variety of innovative new programs and partnerships. EDUCATION: University of Illinois (B, M), Rush University (M)
DOUG DOZEMAN
Managing partner Warner Norcross + Judd, Grand Rapids
BEST ADVICE: After my father died at an early age — he was 39 and I was 14 — my mother told me, "If you want something in life, you'll have to do it yourself.” That galvanized me; it took all excuses away. FAVORITE BOOK: “Grit” by Angela Duckworth
Doug Dozeman is the managing partner for Warner Norcross + Judd and sets the strategic direction for the law firm across eight offices in Michigan. With over 36 years of legal experience in protecting the interests of businesses and individuals involved in complex civil litigation, he works to minimize risks and losses while helping clients move toward successful resolutions. Dozeman defends and prosecutes cases concerning patent infringement, trade secrets, idea misappropriation and many other areas. He holds several community leadership positions as board member for the Hope Housing Commission and The Right Place, and as the former chair and board member for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), Wayne State University Law School (J.D.) FIRST JOB: I grew up on a farm, so I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t working. BEST ADVICE: I was taught early on at Warner to treat clients like your friends, and that’s always stood me in good stead. FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: Learning to play euchre at a summer factory job. We only had 15 minutes during lunch break, so if you didn’t learn how to throw in a hand after two tricks, you were roasted as the “college kid.” HIDDEN TALENT: I know how to pluck a chicken.
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Helping clients achieve their financial goals is our top priority Now more than ever, people are looking for help with managing their financial lives. We offer our clients award-winning financial technology so they can control their finances with ease as well as personalized guidance to help them turn their goals into action. And our focus on financial education, including our Better Money Habits® program, helps clients make smart financial decisions and empowers economic mobility for all. My teammates and I here in Grand Rapids are proud of the impact we’re making, addressing critical needs and playing a vital role in the community where we live and serve.
Bank of America is ranked #1:
#1 in Customer Satisfaction with Mobile Banking Apps among National Banks
#1 in Customer Satisfaction with Online Banking among National Banks*
#1 in Customer Satisfaction with Retail Banking Advice
J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics.
Renee Tabben President, Bank of America Grand Rapids
Go to bankofamerica.com/grandrapids to learn how we’re delivering in our local communities.
*Tied in 2021 for online banking among national banks. For J.D. Power 2021 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards. Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender © 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.
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RAQUEL GUZMAN
Co-founder, attorney Avanti Law Group, Wyoming
Raquel Guzman is a criminal defense attorney, real estate investor and the co-founder of Avanti Law Group, a woman- and minority-owned full-service law firm. Guzman said she has devoted her career to the representation of individuals across boundaries of gender, race, age, sexual orientation and social class. She is a “fearless advocate” for the minority community at the local and national levels. Guzman said she knew she wanted to be an attorney since she was a child. A native Spanish speaker, she moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic and learned English while pursuing her law degree.
SCOTT HILL
Executive partner, attorney Varnum LLP, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Universidad del Este, Puerto Rico (B), Michigan State University College of Law (JD) BIRTHPLACE: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic BOARDS: Latina Network of West Michigan, Power of 100 Women FIRST JOB: McDonald’s LITTLE-KNOWN FACT: I really love costume parties! That’s why Halloween is my favorite holiday. HOBBY: Reading about criminal justice reform, other cultures, personal development and personal finance FAVORITE BOOK: “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson TRAVEL DESTINATION: I’ve been to 53 countries of the world, and Mexico continues to be my favorite country to visit. I reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, one of the world’s seven summits.
ROBERT JONKER
Chief United States district judge Western District of Michigan, Grand Rapids
Robert Jonker has been presiding over court cases for 14 years. He took the bench on July 18, 2007, after former President George W. Bush nominated him. Eight years later, he succeeded the Honorable Paul Lewis Maloney to become the chief judge of the district court. Since becoming a judge, Jonker has ruled in cases pertaining to bribery, patent infringement, embezzlement and civil rights. Prior to attaining the gavel, he practiced commercial and environmental litigation for 20 years at Grand Rapids-based Warner Norcross + Judd LLP. He took cases to trial at appellate courts, the Michigan Supreme Court and the United States Supreme Court. Jonker was the law clerk for Judge John F. Feikens of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan for two years, from 1985-87. Feikens later swore in Jonker during his formal investiture.
Scott Hill has been executive partner of Varnum since January 2019, chairing the 175-attorney law firm’s executive committee and responsible for policy implementation, lean processes and attorney development. Hill’s practice focuses on business representation, including transactions, planning and counseling. Specifically, Hill deals with acquisitions, sales, mergers, succession planning for business owners, private equity, financing and joint ventures on a variety of levels. He also spends a significant portion of his time counseling clients on supply chain contracting issues. Joining the firm in 2003, Hill has led the corporate practice team and the Attorney Recruitment Committee. EDUCATION: Alma College (B), Wayne State University Law School (J.D.) FIRST JOB: Baseball umpire in Independence Township little league in Clarkston BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Stay in the game, from a mentor and coach following his decision to replace me in a game I was pitching. The advice was a reminder that I shouldn’t get too caught up in any specific moment. I refer to it often. TOUGHEST LESSON: Balancing my resolute leadership style with others to improve the firm, a lesson I credit to Leadership Grand Rapids GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: John Ball Zoo FAVORITE CHARITY: Bite Cancer Foundation, which helps individuals and their families who are actively battling cancer
ERIC PAYNE
Police Chief Grand Rapids Police Department
EDUCATION: Calvin University (B), University of Michigan Law School (JD) FIRST JOB: Installing and servicing garage doors and electronic openers INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 HOBBIES: Reading, especially political biographies, yoga and golf TRAVEL DESTINATION: Sedona, Arizona, for peace and New York City for excitement
Eric Payne was appointed police chief of the Grand Rapids Police Department in 2019 and he quickly grabbed the attention of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. In August 2020, the governor tapped Payne to lead the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. The commission sets standards for selection, employment, licensing, license revocation, and funding in law enforcement and criminal justice, in both the public and private sectors. Payne quietly rose up the ranks of the GRPD where he has been serving for 35 years. He was a patrol officer, hostage negotiator and field training officer. He went on to hold other titles. Payne was an administrative lieutenant for the South Service Area and patrol watch commander. He served as captain of the South Service Area and on the department’s crisis negotiation team. He was the captain of the investigative division. Recently, he rolled out a three-year strategic plan based on safety, innovation and engagement in an effort to transform policing in the city. He announced he will retire from the position in early 2022. “It’s my job to make sure Grand Rapids remains one of the safest cities in the country for residents and visitors,” Payne said when he was appointed police chief. EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B)
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MATTHEW WIKANDER
CEO, shareholder, trial lawyer Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge PC, Grand Rapids
MANUFACTURING
Matthew Wikander was elected to a three-year term as CEO in 2020. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, which opened in 1941, now features more than 60 attorneys and has offices in Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon and Ann Arbor. He is a trial lawyer representing plaintiffs and defendants and practicing primarily in the areas of personal injury and wrongful death, employment and commercial litigation matters. He has trial and litigation experience in both federal and state courts across the state of Michigan and in numerous other states. Wikander’s experience includes vehicular, aviation, product liability and construction accidents. Additionally, he serves a variety of businesses and individuals in commercial disputes, such as employment discrimination, employment noncompetition agreements, trade secrets, trademark infringement, wrongful advertising and other unfair trade practice claims.
ROBERT WOLFORD
Managing member Miller Johnson, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Wayne State University Law School (J.D.) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: I have a replica of a paperweight that Lady Bird Johnson kept on her desk. On one side it says, “Can Do,” which was LBJ’s highest form of praise, and the other side contains a Chinese idiom that translates to, “When someone acquires the discipline of learning, then doing the work comes easily.”
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Wayne State University Law School (JD) BEST ADVICE: Job security = always making your boss look good FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I boxed briefly in college. Wonderful experience, but a good reminder that my brain could be better used for a legal education than a punching bag. BUCKET LIST: Getting my pilot’s license
MICHELLE LAJOYE-YOUNG Sheriff Kent County, Grand Rapids
Michelle LaJoye-Young has worked for the Kent County Sheriff’s Office since 1989 in various roles within the corrections, patrol, communications and support services divisions. She served as chief deputy, undersheriff and, in 2018, was appointed sheriff. She is the first female sheriff in Kent County and the only current female in Michigan serving in that capacity. Some of her key projects include a jail expansion, jail management and data collection software, criminal history improvement, law enforcement mobile computing initiatives, dispatch consolidation and record management upgrades. In 2018, she was recognized by the governor for her contributions to statewide communications. LaJoye-Young served in the Michigan Army National Guard and Army Reserves from 1985-89, leaving with the rank of captain. In 2016, she was inducted into the Michigan State University School of Justice Wall of Fame. She is a board member with the Children’s Advocacy Center, Grand Rapids Boys and Girls Club, Michigan Criminal Justice Advisory Board (governor appointee) and the FBI Mobile Data Security Taskforce, among others.
Bob Wolford serves as one of the firm’s managing members and has been practicing law since 2001. He is a corporate lawyer who represents automotive suppliers and other manufacturers in transactions, business and supply chain matters, as well as debtors, purchasers of assets and other interested parties in turnaround and insolvency matters. He regularly represents buyers and sellers throughout the country in mergers, acquisitions of stock or assets, MBOs, recapitalizations, reorganizations, private equity investments and other transactions. He has significant experience advising closely held and family-owned businesses, private equity funds and family offices in all sizes of transactions. Wolford currently serves as the secretary and legal counsel to the Economic Club of Grand Rapids and is one of the founders of the West Michigan Chapter of the Turnaround Management Association.
SARA ARMBRUSTER
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Western Michigan University (M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Be good at something nobody else wants to do.” My father
President, CEO Steelcase
Sara Armbruster is president and CEO of Steelcase Inc., the global leader in the office furniture industry with over 12,000 employees and offices around the world. In addition to serving on the company’s board of directors, Armbruster brings executive experience from several positions to the role of CEO, which she assumed in October 2021. Most recently, Armbruster served as executive vice president of Steelcase. Prior to that, she was vice president of corporate strategy and vice president of strategy, research and digital transformation, where she was responsible for advancing digital technologies and digital transformation at Steelcase. Since joining the company in 2007, she also has held roles leading innovation activities in global design research, new business model design and corporate business development. ln addition, Armbruster oversaw the Steelcase Applied Research + Consulting practice, Steelcase Health and Steelcase Education. EDUCATION: Yale University (B), Johns Hopkins University (M), Dartmouth College (MBA) COVID EXPERIENCE: My family and I have several chickens, six goats, three alpaca and two dogs. One bright spot during the early months of COVID, when we were all at home full-time, was being able to glance out the window in between emails or Teams calls and see animals frolicking in the yard.
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MANUFACTURING
FRANCO BIANCHI
President, CEO Haworth Inc., Holland
Franco Bianchi assumed the role of president and CEO of Haworth in July 2005. He oversees and directs the performance of the global organization. Bianchi served on the corporate executive team in previous roles as COO, vice president of global product lines management and marketing, and vice president of finance for Haworth North America Contract Furniture. Before joining the executive team in Holland, he held several positions in the European sector, including general manager of Haworth Italy and director of finance, information systems and human resources for Castelli. Bianchi’s experience includes auditing, consulting on mergers, acquisitions and re-engineering. He previously was a senior associate for the former Arthur Andersen accounting firm, serving as chief accountant in Montenegro, Italy. He also served in the military for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Bianchi and his wife Alessandra have been married for over 20 years and enjoy staying active with their two sons.
MARK BISSELL
Chair, CEO Bissell Inc., Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B), Cornell University (M) WHAT WOULD YOU TELL A RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRAD: Stay true to your ideals but get out of your comfort zone. Take advantage of opportunities to travel or study abroad. Never stop learning. Take personal responsibility. Be your own advocate. Give back. Opportunity abounds. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Our company and family were honored to have a statue of America’s first female CEO and my great-grandmother, Anna Bissell, dedicated along Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids in 2016. FAVORITE CHARITY: Bissell Pet Foundation (launched by Cathy Bissell and Mark Bissell)
EDUCATION: Bologna University in Bologna, Italy (B), chartered public accountant LANGUAGES: Italian, English, French FIRST JOB: My early summer jobs were ice cream maker, fruit picker and porter at a hotel. BEST ADVICE: Be honest, work hard, dedicate yourself to a goal and good things will happen to you.
MARC BITZER
CEO Whirlpool Corporation, Benton Harbor
Marc Bitzer has spent the last 20-plus years at Whirlpool Corporation. Throughout his time, he has taken on increasingly important roles. He was named the chief executive officer of the company in 2017. However, when he started in 1999, Bitzer held a position in Europe. He was the vice president of the Bauknecht brand group, one of Whirlpool’s brands that also includes KitchenAid, Maytag, Hotpoint, Consul and more. He became senior vice president, marketing sales and services for Whirlpool Europe a year later. Bitzer was named the president of Whirlpool Europe in January 2006. He went on to serve as the president of Whirlpool North America between 2009-13. He later was named vice chairman, which included overall leadership of North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Before joining Whirlpool, Bitzer worked for eight years at the Boston Consulting Group in Munich and Toronto.
Mark Bissell leads Bissell Inc., a fourth-generation, family-owned company founded in 1876. It is the seventh-oldest private manufacturing company in the U.S., according to Bissell. The company designs and markets a full line of home cleaning products worldwide and holds significant market share in the U.S. floor care industry. Bissell is a member of the board of directors of Business Leaders for Michigan. He and his wife Cathy Bissell are longtime supporters of John Ball Zoo, including as donors to the JUMP program that provides free admission to economically challenged families and as lead donors for the zoo’s Bissell Tree House event venue.
STEVEN CAHILLANE
EDUCATION: St. Gallen Graduate School of Business, Economics and Law (B, M, Ph.D.) WHIRLPOOL FOUNDED: By Louis and Emory Upton in 1911 PRODUCTS: Major and small appliances HISTORY: The company converted to armament production during World War II REVENUE: $19.5 billion (2020)
Chair, CEO Kellogg Company, Battle Creek
Steven Cahillane joined Kellogg in October 2017 as CEO and became board chair in March 2018. Prior to Kellogg, in 2014, Cahillane was president and CEO at The Nature’s Bounty, a global manufacturer, marketer and specialty retailer of health and wellness products. Prior to Nature’s Bounty, Cahillane spent seven years with The Coca-Cola Company, most recently as president of Coca-Cola Americas, with $25 billion in sales. He also spent eight years with AB lnBev, the world’s largest brewing company, in various senior leadership roles, including chief commercial officer after the 2004 merger of Interbrew and AmBev. Cahillane serves on the boards of Northwestern University, Purpose Built Communities, The Consumer Goods Forum and Business Leaders for Michigan. EDUCATION: Northwestern University (B), Harvard University (M) FIRST JOB: Sales representative for E & J Gallo Winery BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Know how much you can achieve if you don’t care about who gets credit. Focus on what’s best for the organization. In the long run, it really pays off. LESSON LEARNED: Making some of the tough decisions that affect people’s lives is never easy. And if you ever do find it easy, it’s time to stop.
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MANUFACTURING
DOUG DEVOS Co-chairman Amway, Ada
Doug DeVos co-chairs the board of directors at Amway, one of the world’s leading direct selling companies. He previously served as president of Amway for more than 16 years. DeVos’ focus on fostering entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for people around the world to start a business of their own helped drive Amway to its leadership position in the industry. DeVos, who joined Amway in 1986, previously served in various leadership positions for Amway in Europe, the Americas and Asia. In 2018, the U.S. Department of Commerce appointed DeVos to the U.S.-India CEO Forum. Beyond Amway, DeVos chairs the executive committee for the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia and is involved in numerous Michigan business and civic organizations, including Business Leaders for Michigan, West Michigan Policy Forum and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
STEVE DOWNING President, CEO Gentex, Zeeland
EDUCATION: Purdue University (B) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The shutdown of the direct selling industry in China. However, through industry collaboration, persistence of the Amway teams, and understanding of the regulators, we were able to develop dramatic growth in that market since then.
Steve Downing joined Gentex in 2002 as a financial analyst and has served in a variety of roles with increasing responsibilities in commercial management, forecasting, quotation development and strategic partnerships. In May 2013, he was promoted to chief financial officer and vice president of finance while maintaining responsibility for all commercial management activities. His next promotion came in June 2015, when he became senior vice president with added responsibility for the company’s business development and sales functions. In August 2017, Downing again was promoted, this time to president, chief operating officer, interim chief financial officer and treasurer. On Jan. 1, 2018, Downing was named chief executive officer. Downing’s leadership over the past several years has been instrumental in guiding Gentex through several acquisitions and equity investments, forming key partnerships with leading technology providers, iterating core products and forging new technology paths like biometrics, connected car features and dimmable glass — all while helping to increase the company’s sales despite a business climate punctuated by declining automotive production volumes and market headwinds. EDUCATION: Liberty University (B)
NICK HRNYAK
CEO Lacks Enterprises
Nick Hrnyak’s promotion to CEO in 2021 marks the first time in 60 years the automotive supplier does not have a Lacks family member as either president or CEO. Hrnyak was named Lacks president in 2015, the first nonfamily member to fill that position. The University of Illinois graduate joined the company in 2002 as director of sales in the company’s Plastic Plate division and was later promoted to general manager and vice president. Founded in 1961 by John P. Lacks and his son, Richard Lacks Sr., Lacks produces turnkey finish solutions for the automotive and other industries that rely on decades of experience in thermoplastic design, injection molding, chrome plating, painting, assembly, logistics and supply chain management. Originally named Metlac Corporation, the company was created to make die-cast products. The Lacks family changed the name of the business to Lacks Industries in 1972. Richard Lacks Jr. became the third-generation Lacks family leader when he was named CEO. The fourth-largest privately held employer in West Michigan, Lacks has more than 3,000 workers at facilities in the Grand Rapids area and Novi, as well as Germany, the U.K., Japan and South Korea.
CHRISTINA KELLER President, CEO Cascade Engineering, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Illinois (B)
Christina Keller is three years into her tenure as the leader of her family-owned private business founded by her father Fred Keller in 1973. With the experiences she garnered since joining the company in 2009, Keller’s aim is to ensure Cascade becomes a triple bottom line company. Before she was elevated to her current position in 2018, Keller served as the president for Cascade Business Team for two years, overseeing five of Cascade’s nine businesses. She was named president of CK Technologies, the largest of Cascade’s business units headquartered in Montpelier, Ohio, in 2013, with additional facilities in Mount Airy, North Carolina; Brownsville, Texas; and Grand Prairie, Texas. Between 2010-13, Keller was the business unit leader for Triple Quest, which produced and distributed the Hydraid filter. Keller also led the strategic integration of all Cascade Engineering’s North American operations. EDUCATION: Boston College (B), Cornell University (MBA) BOARDS: Grand Angels Investment Group, Young Presidents Organization, Family Business Alliance, Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Independent Bank FIRST JOB: Babysitting at a home daycare HIDDEN TALENTS: I was the girls ice hockey coach at Cornell when I was in business school. BEST ADVICE: Make sure everyone knows they are valued.
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MANUFACTURING
JOHN KENNEDY
President, CEO Autocam Medical, Grand Rapids
Since John Kennedy started the contract medical manufacturing company Autocam Medical in 2005, it has grown rapidly by serving the major medical device manufacturers. The company has three facilities in the U.S., and a facility in China and Brazil, where it makes surgical implants for hips, shoulders and ankles, and surgical instruments such as screwdrivers and drill bits. The company will seek about $150 million in product in 2021. While leading Autocam Medical, Kennedy also was at the helm of Autocam Corporation, which he founded in 1988 and served as the president and CEO. The Grand Rapids-based company made automotive parts for engines, power steering, and transmissions. The company grew from $8 million to about $400 million in sales with 13 facilities. Kennedy later sold Autocam Corporation to NN Inc. in 2014. Outside the manufacturing realm, Kennedy has invested in a hands-on literacy initiative, which is focused on increasing third grade reading proficiency in elementary schools in the Grand Rapids area.
MURRAY KESSLER
President, CEO Perrigo Company PLC, Allegan
EDUCATION: Villanova University (B), New York University Stern School (M) HOBBIES: Show jumping, boating, hiking and traveling GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: DeVos Center FAVORITE CHARITIES: JustWorld International and American Red Cross
EDUCATION: University of Detroit Mercy (B), University of Michigan (M) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Improving the education system to achieve higher literacy outcomes than the current dismal 45% MSTEP proficiency rate for third graders in Michigan
BLAKE KRUEGER
Chairman of the board, president, CEO Wolverine Worldwide Inc., Rockford
Blake Krueger is currently board chair, chief executive officer, president and a director of Wolverine Worldwide Inc., a New York Stock Exchange listed international marketer of footwear, apparel and accessories with annual sales of approximately $2.4 billion. But that will change soon. At the end of 2021, Brendan Hoffman will succeed Krueger, who began his career with Wolverine in 1993, has been CEO since 2007 and board chair since 2009. As part of the transition, Krueger will assume the newly created role of executive chair of Wolverine Worldwide. Wolverine’s portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Merrell, Sperry, Saucony, Wolverine, Hush Puppies, Keds, Stride Rite, Chaco, Bates, HyTest, Caterpillar Footwear and Harley-Davidson Footwear, and its products are sold around the world in 170 countries and territories through owned operations and third-party distributors. The company’s brands have over 1,000 years of collective brand equity. Krueger practiced law at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP from 1978-1996 in the field of corporate and business law, mergers, acquisitions and securities, and was listed in the Best Lawyers of America while in private practice.
Murray S. Kessler has only been at the helm of Perrigo Company for two years, but he is quickly creating his own legacy. In January 2020, the consumer goods and pharmaceutical company launched a generic version of Topicort (desoximetasone) Topical Spray 0.25%, which treats plaque psoriasis in patients 18 or older. The manufacturer also acquired Grand Rapids-based Ranir, a maker of oral care products, in May 2020. Kessler formerly was president and CEO of Lorillard Tobacco Company, where he grew the company’s market capitalization from about $9 billion to about $28 billion during his five-year tenure. He also was the president and CEO of UST Inc. Under his leadership, the company’s market capitalization grew from about $2.5 billion to about $12.7 billion. Before his time at UST and Lorillard, Kessler had over 18 years of consumer-packaged goods experience with companies including Vlasic Foods International, Campbell Soup and The Clorox Company.
KEVIN LOBO
Chairman, CEO Stryker, Kalamazoo
Kevin Lobo is doing more than creating and selling orthopaedic, surgical, neurotechnology and spinal products these days. His background in finance has allowed him to grow the medical device manufacturer through more than two dozen acquisitions since he joined the company in 2011, initially as the group president of Stryker Orthopaedics and later the president and CEO in 2012. The recent acquisition of Wright Medical was the company’s largest in its history. Before joining Stryker, Lobo held finance positions at KPMG, Unilever and Kraft Canada. He spent eight years with Rhone-Poulenc, including roles based in Europe as corporate controller of Rhodia, the chemical spinoff, and as general manager of Specialty Phosphates EMEA. He then spent eight years at Johnson & Johnson. EDUCATION: McGill University (B), University of Toronto (M), Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CPA) BOARDS: Chair of Advanced Medical Technology Association, board member of Parker Hannifin Corporation and member of Business Roundtable and Business Council FIRST JOB: Auditor at Richter
EDUCATION: Michigan State University (B), Wayne State University Law School (JD) HOBBIES: Fly-fishing
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MANUFACTURING
MATTHEW MISSAD
CEO UFP Industries, Grand Rapids
Matthew Missad is the leader of a $5.1 billion public company that provides capital, management and administrative resources to subsidiaries that supply wood, wood composite and other products to the retail, construction and industrial markets. Its affiliates are located throughout North America, Australia, Europe and Asia. Missad served as general counsel and secretary at what was then called Universal Forest Products from 1987 to July 2011 and also held the position of executive vice president from 1996 until July 2011, when he was named CEO.
ANDI OWEN
President, CEO Herman Miller, Zeeland
EDUCATION: Hope College (B), Thomas M. Cooley Law School (JD) BOARDS: UFP Industries and Independent Bank Corp. NOTABLE: Missad is the fifth CEO in the history of the company, which was founded in 1955. He led the 2020 structural change when the company became known as UFP Industries Inc. and reorganized around the markets it serves rather than by geography to increase growth, share resources and introduce new products.
EDUCATION: William & Mary (B), Harvard Business School (M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “I never gave up painting, I just changed my palette.” Ray Eames FUNNIEST WORK EXPERIENCE: We used to have periodic contests at one of my past jobs. If there was ever a tie, the two or three people who tied would have to participate in a ’70s “dance-off.” I think there might have been some fake ties because the dance-offs became so popular. HIDDEN TALENT: I’ve got serious face-painting skills — especially Día de los Muertos skulls. TV SHOW: “Craft in America” on PBS
Milind Pant said he is thrilled to be serving as CEO of Amway, which is committed to helping people live better, healthier lives across the globe. He assumed his role in 2019 and calls it a “privilege” to work alongside 1 million passionate and diverse entrepreneurs in 100-plus countries and territories, while also working with a global team of employees to develop innovative health and wellness solutions.
MILIND PANT CEO Amway, Ada
EDUCATION: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (M) and Birla Institute of Technology & Sciences (M) FIRST JOB: Following graduate school, I worked with Unilever India in a business unit that made leather shoes for exports. Despite grandiose plans for traveling to New York or London to meet with customers, my earliest days were spent in southern India’s Tamil Nadu province, sitting in humid, 110-degree heat, helping sort moist, semi-processed leather piece by piece on a tannery floor. Almost 30 years later, that foul smell is still in my nostrils! These formative years in supply chain helped shape my commercial instincts and taught me a lot about having a growth mindset. COVID STORY: Three habits I have adopted since the pandemic began are: a plant-forward diet; daily exercise even if it’s just 20-30 minutes; and daily afternoon meditation. These habits have helped me feel healthier and more energized. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: During my first 25 years, I didn’t even have a passport. Today, I’ve had the good fortune to travel to over 50 countries.
Herman Miller is a globally recognized design and innovation company. As CEO, Andi Owen is responsible for leading the company’s worldwide operations, which encompasses nearly 8,000 team members and $2.47 billion in revenue in fiscal 2020. She was appointed president and CEO in August 2018 and is overseeing the company’s aggressive growth strategy to reach untapped market potential around the world. Before Herman Miller, she spent a 25-year career leading complex customer-focused businesses with Gap Inc. Most recently, Owen held full profit and loss responsibility, led 11,000 employees, and oversaw more than 600 specialty and outlet stores across 27 countries as global president of Banana Republic.
MARK PETERS CEO Butterball Farms
Mark Peters is the chief executive officer of Butterball Farms Inc., which was nationally recognized as one of The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For from 2015-2021. The second-generation family business, based in Grand Rapids, is America’s leading producer of culinary butter and margarine and creates custom butter flavors for some of America’s biggest brands. Peters also is author of “The SOURCE: Using the Power of Collaboration to Stabilize Your Workforce and Impact Your Community,” which highlights his journey from concept to creation of a not-for-profit organization that has helped hundreds of workers navigate personal challenges interfering with their jobs. EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), Davenport University (B) BEST ADVICE: “Don’t try, just do it.” My Dad COVID STORY: Where to start? Parenting a school-age daughter changed, business imploded overnight, a little bit of shock. Worked hard to be intentional and open with employees. Fast, open communication worked well. Balancing how to work, and how to pursue new markets during a pandemic. Also, finished writing my book. The push to finish the book, was a huge motivator during the worst months of the pandemic. FAVORITE CHARITY: The Potter’s House School hits all my buttons: education, inner-city kids, Christ-centered
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Congratulations to Sara Armbruster, Jim Keane and Daniel Williams — three remarkable Steelcase leaders! Your unwavering focus on doing what’s right — and doing the right things — help us live out our purpose each day. We celebrate you and thank you for your commitment to use our business as a force for good.
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MANUFACTURING
STEVE VAN ANDEL Co-chair Amway, Ada
Steve Van Andel is co-chair of the board of directors of Amway, one of the world’s leading direct selling businesses. He served as co-CEO of Amway from 1995-2018. Van Andel is the eldest son of Amway co-founder Jay Van Andel, who, with Rich DeVos, started Amway in 1959. Over the past two decades, Van Andel has been part of leading a strategic transformation of the company with a focus on growth through digital tools, mobile experiences and product innovations. He has been an ambassador for free enterprise and free trade interests all over the world. He has twice served as chairman of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he remains a member of several committees, and has been involved with the U.S.-China Business Council as well as the U.S.-Korea Business Council. He currently is on the boards of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Business Leaders for Michigan, West Michigan Policy Forum, Metro Health Hospital and Hillsdale College.
MEDIA
DAN BAYLOG
President, general manager WZZM 13/TEGNA, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Ohio University (B), University of Maryland (M) QUOTE: “Get busy living, or get busy dying.” Andy DuFresne, Shawshank Redemption FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: While working virtually during the pandemic, hosting serious business meetings on Zoom with a mess of toys in the background (I have four young kids). HOBBIES: What are hobbies? (I have four young kids) SPEND YOUR DOWNTIME: What is downtime? (I have four young kids)
EDUCATION: Hillsdale College (B), Miami University (M) FIRST JOB: Cleaning test tubes in Amway’s R&D Department INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Quitting the first time a problem presents itself is not a way to prevent failure; it’s a way to assure it.” Jay Van Andel
JULIE BRINKS
Vice president, general manager WOOD-TV/WOTV-TV/ WXSP-TV, Grand Rapids
Julie Brinks has been in leadership roles with radio and television organizations for over 30 years. She has led the launch of seven new television stations during her tenure, as well as holding general and regional management positions in Michigan, Illinois, Arizona, California and Oregon. She is board chair of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters; a member of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women board of directors and a Circle of Red member in Tucson and Grand Rapids; and a member of Rotary International. She is a past board member of Junior Achievement, where she also was a business club adviser.
Dan Baylog has held positions of increasing responsibility in the broadcast media industry in Cleveland, Ohio, Norfolk, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Currently, Baylog is serving as president and general manager at WZZM 13 ON YOUR SIDE. He is a graduate of TEGNA’s Executive Leadership Program and has previously taught at Kent State University’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Baylog actively serves as a mentor for American Corporate Partners, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting U.S. veterans in their transition from the armed services to the civilian workforce and most recently has been honored to serve on the Greatest Generation Day committee on behalf of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids.
TIMOTHY GRUBER
EDUCATION: Central Michigan University (B), Baker College (MBA) FIRST JOB: I started at WOOD-TV as a rookie account executive right out of college. My career took me many places and positions, but I returned full circle to lead this amazing group of media professionals decades later. What a privilege! FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “The joy is in creating, not maintaining.” Vince Lombardi LESSON LEARNED: Change is inevitable, whether we instigate that change or things change for us. Understanding that, know what values and principles you will not compromise on and in all else, be flexible. FAVORITE MOVIE: “No Way Out,” it’s one of the few movies where the ending caught me by surprise.
President MLive Media Group
Timothy Gruber was named president of Grand Rapids-based MLive Media Group in March. The media group is the sister company to MLive, with 10 local newsrooms and eight publications throughout Michigan. Prior to becoming president, Gruber was the president of Gannett’s Michigan market that included the Detroit Free Press and Michigan.com, which included The Detroit News, Lansing State Journal, Lansing Community Newspapers, Port Huron Times Herald, Battle Creek Enquirer, Livingston Daily Press and Argus and the Observer & Eccentrics (Detroit-area weeklies). Before joining Gannett, Gruber held several senior leadership positions in the communications industry. EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B) FIRST JOB: Construction BEST ADVICE OR FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.” Richard Branson HOBBIES: Boating and snow skiing FAVORITE BOOK, MOVIE OR TV SHOW: Billions and Who’s Line Is It Anyway? SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU: My first job out of high school was working for GMAC in collections repossessing cars in Flint TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Being able to adapt in these trying times during the pandemic and creating a new sense of normalcy in the workplace.
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MEDIA
SHELLEY IRWIN
Host, producer WGVU Public Media, Grand Rapids
Shelley Irwin is the host and producer for The WGVU Morning Show, a newsmagazine talk-show format on the local NPR affiliate. The show features a wide variety of local and national newsmakers, plus special features. She also hosts several public affairs programs on the TV side, including Family Health Matters and Kalamazoo Lively Arts. Irwin is award-winning in her profession, including several Gracie Allen Awards from American Women in TV and Radio for excellence as a program host. She was awarded the 2016 Athena Award honoring an individual who has demonstrated leadership in their profession, mentored and opened new opportunities for women and contributed time and talent to the community, as well as the Rotary of Grand Rapids’ Service Above Self award, given in recognition of Frederik Meijer, whose humanitarian acts of selfless service made an enduring difference in the lives of others. Her community involvement extends from the Kent County Parks Foundation to the Girls Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, Hope Network and Cherry Health Foundation.
NONPROFITS
KIMBERLY KRAUSE
Vice president, general manager WXMI, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) BOARDS: Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan and Michigan Association of Broadcasters FIRST JOB: Retail sales representative at an athletic footwear store INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: "The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle." Steve Jobs LESSON LEARNED: Be confident in your decisions even knowing that you won't always please everyone. FAVORITE CHARITY: Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan and the Humane Society of West Michigan
EDUCATION: Indiana University Bloomington (B), University of Indianapolis (M) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: I was told I didn't have a broadcast voice. I kept going.
JAMON ALEXANDER President, CEO WMCAT, Grand Rapids
A committed nonprofit professional and community leader, Jamon Alexander is the president and CEO of the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT), advancing the organization’s mission to provide equitable access to opportunity. He began his career leading fundraising and volunteer efforts at the Heart of West Michigan United Way, Spectrum Health and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital foundations, and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. Most recently the director of workforce development at WMCAT, Alexander spent six years growing the nationally recognized program that provides adults a pathway to family economic security through health care career training and holistic support.
Kimberly Krause is no stranger to sales and marketing. She first started in the field at the age of 16, and since then, she has spent much of her career in sales through media. However, Krause took on a new challenge when she joined WXMI, a FOX affiliate and Tribune Media property, three years ago to become the station’s new vice president. Before FOX, she spent 21 years at rival TV station WZZM-13, an ABC affiliate. She started as a local sales manager and was later promoted to vice president of sales and marketing. Krause worked for a year at WLAJ ABC 53 in Lansing. She spent her first six years after graduating college at WWMT Ch. 3 in the West Michigan market as an account executive and later a special projects manager.
SANDRA GADDY
CEO Women’s Resource Center, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B) FIRST JOB: I worked at Burger King at 14 years old — the Whopper still holds a special place in my heart. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I graduated high school at 16 and turned 17 just before my freshman year of college. My peers were always older than me by at least a year. HOBBIES: Spending time with my family and being part of the #PistonsTwitter community with other fans, beat writers, bloggers and podcasters. ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: See the world and gain greater perspective by studying abroad. Not studying abroad is one of my biggest regrets.
Sandra Gaddy is the CEO of Women’s Resource Center, an organization founded in 1973 with the mission is to equip women to achieve purpose, fulfillment and financial stability through meaningful employment. She previously served as vice president of advancement for Inner City Christian Federation, and chief communication and development officer for Mel Trotter Ministries. Prior to her nonprofit work, Gaddy spent 15 years in banking, including serving as vice president of business banking and wealth management. She has over 20 years of leadership experience and brings expertise in team development, strategic planning, forming collaborative partnerships and fund mobilization. EDUCATION: Cornerstone University (B) FIRST JOB: Babysitting. My mom was a licensed child care provider and had a home daycare center. I was a trained assistant, so I had a lot of experience. FAVORITE QUOTE: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair.” — Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, first African American woman elected to Congress BUCKET LIST: A modern-jazz dance duet with the great dancer, choreographer, producer and actress Debbie Allen TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Although transitioning from a corporate career to a career in nonprofit service was challenging on many levels, it was one of the most rewarding decisions I made
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NONPROFITS
JAZZ MCKINNEY
Executive Director Grand Rapids Pride Center, Grand Rapids
Jazz McKinney is a Black, Indigenous, Two-Spirit individual that has been involved in the mental health field for over nine years, and with racial justice work as well as advocacy/activism in the 2-SLGBTQ+ community for over 16 years. They are committed to highlighting the importance of education, awareness and involvement to create change. They are passionate about working to decolonize gender roles and identities as well as discussing the impact that harmful gender binaries can cause within our communities. They currently serve as the executive director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center.
CHRIS PALUSKY
President, CEO Bethany Christian Services, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B), Western Michigan University (M) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “When we imprison our hearts to protect our egos, we kill courage. Yes, a liberated heart is more vulnerable, but it’s also more daring” — Brene Brown. Brown often says that the more we protect ourselves from vulnerability, the more we grow fearful and disconnected. I can’t make real change if I am not vulnerable and authentic. I can’t engage with you if I don’t think I can be heard. LESSON LEARNED: That being different isn’t a bad thing and my self-expression is a human right. No one can or should stop my uniqueness. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I am a percussionist! I used to direct City High Middle/High School's percussionists for five years and I love music so much.
ANNEMARIE VALDEZ President, CEO First Steps Kent
Annemarie Valdez has nearly 20 years of experience as an advocate for children and families, including extensive work on innovative funding strategies, a successful millage campaign and next-generation funding. She came to First Steps Kent from Illinois, where she led a statewide infant mortality prevention organization as CEO. Prior experience includes CEO of Child’s Hope, housed at UM-Dearborn’s School of Education, and the Youth Development Commission in Detroit. She was appointed to the Michigan Governor’s Child Welfare Improvement Task Force in 2009. Valdez has worked extensively on infant mortality prevention, early childhood program innovation, such as the national program Jumpstart, and has served on dozens of community advisory councils and boards. More recently, she has been instrumental in the Kent Child Care Crisis Response Team which has helped get funding and supplies to 179 providers so far, representing 3,039 children in their care in Kent County.
Chris Palusky is Bethany Christian Services’ fifth president, joining the organization in January 2018. He began his career at World Relief and most recently served as U.S. vice president of private funding and humanitarian and emergency affairs at World Vision, a global Christian humanitarian organization partnering with children, families and their communities to tackle the causes of poverty and injustice. He brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience to Bethany, having implemented and established multisite teams that have flourished and grown to meet the needs of vulnerable populations around the world. As president and CEO, Palusky is developing long-term strategy and direction, leading innovative change, and building relationships and partnerships for one of the largest global Christian social services organizations. EDUCATION: Kennesaw State University (B), University of Reading (M) FIRST JOB: Dishwasher at a country club BEST ADVICE: Listen to as many perspectives as you can but, at the end of the day, make a decision TRAVEL DESTINATION: I have traveled to over 70 countries and lived in 23 of those. A favorite travel destination is tied between Beirut, Lebanon, and Oxford, England. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTIONS: The cultural festivals and ArtPrize
MICHELLE VAN DYKE President, CEO Heart of West Michigan United Way, Grand Rapids
LESSON LEARNED: If you are able to provide the compelling information to the public, our community is very generous when it comes to investing in our children. HIDDEN TALENT: I play the electric bass. HOBBIES: My family currently is working on a historical documentary film. GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTION: Fish Ladder Park
Michelle Van Dyke serves as president and CEO of Heart of West Michigan United Way and has held this position since January 2016 when she retired from a 30-year career in banking. Previously, Van Dyke was the president of Fifth Third Mortgage Company. She joined Fifth Third Bank in 2001 through the acquisition of Old Kent Bank, and assumed the position of executive vice president of Retail Banking. In 2004, she was named president and CEO of the Western Michigan affiliate. She later was named regional president overseeing several of Fifth Third Bank’s affiliates. In 2014, she accepted the role of president of Fifth Third Mortgage Company. Van Dyke serves on the boards of Davenport University and Fifth Third Bank, Western Michigan. EDUCATION: Calvin College (B) FIRST JOB: I worked in an ice cream/candy shop waiting tables and scooping ice cream. Unbelievably, I never tired of ice cream, and it is still one of my favorite foods. COVID EXPERIENCE: My COVID experience was one of adaptation and innovation. As a community leader in the emergency response, United Way needed to change our process and our priorities overnight (literally). HOBBIES: I love to do puzzles of any kind, and I love to read. BUCKET LIST: See the Northern Lights
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“An estimated 140 million children around the world live every day without permanent, safe homes. The pandemic has underscored the urgent need to walk alongside as many of them as possible. Bethany is helping children and families find safety, love, and connection. Together, we are changing the world through family.” — CHRIS PALUSKY, PRESIDENT AND CEO
Family changes everything Bethany.org
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NONPROFITS
RACHEL VERWYS
Executive director Safe Haven Ministries
Rachel VerWys’s experiences span a variety of communities from Southern California to West Michigan. VerWys serves as the executive director of Safe Haven Ministries leading work to prevent and end relationship abuse in the community. She also is the co-creator of SEE, a collective impact organization creating a future free from human trafficking and co-chairs the SEE Human Trafficking Coalition. She volunteers time with community boards supporting work to contribute to a thriving community. She was recognized as one of GRBJ’s 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan in 2020 and received a Diversity Award from Wedgwood Christian Services this past spring.
RYAN VERWYS
CEO Inner City Christian Federation, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Calvin College (B), University of Southern California (M) FIRST JOB: Washing retail store windows in downtown Grand Haven COVID EXPERIENCE: The experience COVID brought of disruption, loss and unknowns led me to intentional practices of wellness like prayer and walks in nature. There has been collective grief, and also gratitude for those who give generously and serve others daily. LESSON LEARNED: I have learned the invitation to create possibility for change can have a powerful impact. HOBBIES: Enjoying the outdoors, from pickleball to hiking a trail
PHILLIP WEAVER President, CEO Hope Network, Grand Rapids
Since 2006, Phillip Weaver has been president and CEO of Hope Network, a $170 million nonprofit with 2,800 employees that serves more than 73 counties in Michigan. Hope Network has locations and programs across the entire state and is recognized as the premier provider of specialty health and community services to individuals with disabilities and disadvantages. The organization served more than 26,000 people last year alone and also runs the largest nonprofit transportation system in Michigan. Prior to joining Hope Network, Weaver was president and CEO of Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids. During his 25 years in the public and private sectors, he has held several positions in human resources, organizational development/strategy and executive operations management with Stryker Corp., Ford Motor Co., Triple S Plastics and Eimo Americas.
Ryan VerWys started his career in Southern California as a community organizer and youth pastor in South Los Angeles and Long Beach. From 2003-14, he founded and directed a Christian nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness through affordable housing, providing employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals, and asset-based community development in economically marginalized neighborhoods. In 2014, he moved to West Michigan to become the operations director for the church planting agency of the Christian Reformed Church, leading a team that supported work throughout the U.S. and Canada. In 2015, he assumed his current role as CEO of Inner City Christian Federation where he and his team create equitable opportunity and thriving neighborhoods by providing supportive services and creating and preserving affordable housing throughout West Michigan. EDUCATION: Calvin University (B) INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Go to the people. Live with them. Learn from them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build with what they have. But with the best leaders, when the work is done, the task accomplished, the people will say, ‘We have done this ourselves.’” Lao Tzu TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: When I was 16, I survived a structure fire that sadly took the lives of my two best friends.
BRIDGET CLARK WHITNEY
EDUCATION: Northern Michigan University (B), Michigan State University (M) BEST ADVICE: Never be afraid to make a mistake or take a risk, and family always comes first FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I, for many years, have written poetry, and of course, I like to ride my Harley with my wife. TRAVEL DESTINATION: Mackinac Island and the rest of the U.P. are right up there HOBBIES: Sports, but mostly basketball. I played until I was 60. Now taking up pickleball.
President, CEO Kids’ Food Basket
Bridget Clark Whitney leads Kids’ Food Basket (KFB), a nonprofit that provides healthy sack suppers, food education, community engagement and fresh urban farm produce to thousands of underserved children in Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa and Allegan counties. During her 19-year tenure, KFB has undergone significant growth, serving 125 children in 2002 to over 8,800 children each weekday as of 2020 — and thousands of West Michigan families through COVID-19. Under her leadership, Kids’ Food Basket has grown from a $20,000 budget to an $8 million annual budget. Prior to COVID-19, Kids’ Food Basket averaged over 290 daily volunteers and has over 15,000 volunteers each year, 33% of which are under age 18. EDUCATION: Aquinas College (B), Marygrove College (M) BOARDS: Michigan Nonprofit Association, executive committee and membership and development committee; Michigan Women Forward, advisory board member FIRST JOB: Camp counselor FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I’m a rockhound! I have a special love and affinity for rocks and geology, especially Great Lakes fossils and rocks. I’m fascinated by the history of our planet, especially this region, and that we can collect artifacts that connect us to 300-500 million years ago.
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An Advocate for Latinx Businesses and Talent Congratulations to Guillermo Cisneros, West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, for being recognized as one of the Grand Rapids 200. Guillermo’s vision and passion is to see a prosperous Latinx community in West Michigan.
The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation promotes economic and workforce development by advancing Latinx businesses and talent in West Michigan. Together, the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber and Foundation promote economic development by fostering the next generation of new businesses and creating related employment opportunities. Guillermo Cisneros WMHCC President & CEO
Partner with the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to continue and expand this work. Visit: westmihcc.org
Recognizing our visionary CEO and other leaders in the 2021 Grand Rapids 200. Grateful a number of public and private sector leaders in Grand Rapids are partnering to advance equity through early childhood education, workforce development, support for entrepreneurs of color and health equity. For more information on how business leaders can advance racial equity, download the Michigan Business Case for Racial Equity at www.co/MIBizCase-GRBJ. wkkf.org
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@KelloggFoundation
Twitter: @WK_Kellogg_Fdn
kelloggfoundation
9/21/21 10:52 AM
NONPROFITS
MILINDA YSASI
Executive director Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women, Grand Rapids
REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT
Milinda Ysasi became GROW’s executive director in 2021 following the retirement of Bonnie Nawara. She comes to GROW from The SOURCE, a nonprofit focused on reducing employment barriers and creating opportunities for mobility for employees that work for their partner organizations, where she was executive director. She also is currently Second Ward commissioner for the city of Grand Rapids. Ysasi’s hiring follows a banner year for the organization. In 2020, GROW deployed $587,000 in loans to startups and existing businesses seeking COVID-19 relief funds. In the midst of record efforts to deploy funds and support businesses in their bleakest moments throughout the pandemic, the organization renewed its designation as a community development financial institution (CDFI), receiving a $400,000 grant award to inject new sources of federal capital into low-income communities and individuals who lack financing. Out of 375 organizations nationally, GROW was the only CDFI awarded funds in West Michigan in 2020.
SAM CUMMINGS
Managing partner CWD Real Estate Investment, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Calvin University (B) FIRST JOB: I grew up on a farm. … My first nonfarm job was manual labor for Doc Zuchowski, a concrete contractor in Newaygo, doing footings, walls and flatwork. FAVORITE QUOTE: “You have to have your foot in the field.” My Dad HOBBIES: Learning, cooking, listening to music, hiking, biking, skiing, enjoying Lake Michigan and the outdoors, art, vintage cars, maritime history and architecture PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Alive or dead? Will Ferrell or Jimmy Stewart
EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B), Michigan State University (M) GRAND RAPIDS ATTRACTIONS: GRAM, UICA, Rosa Parks Circle and Calder Plaza
DAN DEVOS
CE, Chairman DP Fox, Grand Rapids
Dan DeVos wears a lot of hats. He is chairman and CEO of Fox Motors, Fox Harley-Davidson and Fox Powersports; majority owner and CEO of the Grand Rapids Griffins; owner of DP Fox Sports and Entertainment; chairman of the Orlando Magic, Lakeland Magic and Orlando Solar Bears; and vice chairman of RDV Corporation. DeVos serves on the Amway board of directors, is a partner with CWD Real Estate Investment and Georgian Automotive Group, and is a limited partner of the Chicago Cubs. He also serves as vice chairman of the Grand Valley University Foundation and chairman of the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation. EDUCATION: Northwood University (B) FIRST JOB: Sweeping floors and cleaning toilets at Amway BEST ADVICE: “If you have a dream, give it a chance to happen.” — Rich DeVos. My Dad was always there with an encouraging word, a smile and a belief that anything was possible. His enthusiasm was contagious and a great example for us all. FAVORITE HOBBIES: I enjoy cars, the waterfront and boating. My interest in cars led us to start Fox Motors, and that has been a lot of fun. FAVORITE CHARITY: We enjoy supporting several of the great causes in West Michigan, including the arts, higher education and health care.
Sam Cummings has dedicated the past 28 years of his life to preserving Grand Rapids’ history and revitalizing the community through the built environment. He and his partners, Scott Wierda and Dan DeVos, are working to bring “new vision, vibrancy and vitality to the urban core and community.” Since forming CWD Real Estate Investment in 2008, the trio has assembled more than 3 million square feet of retail and urban office real estate in West Michigan. Prior to forming CWD, Cummings was founding principal and president of Second Story Properties. Under his leadership, Second Story developed and renovated more than 24 properties and 850,000 square feet of office, residential and mixed-use assets. Previously, Cummings also served as partner and president of Macroe Properties.
GARY GRANGER Chairman, CEO Granger Group
Gary Granger has 44 years of leadership experience in all phases of the real estate investment process. He encourages quality, value and the highest possible returns for investors on every project in which he is involved. Prior to his namesake company, Granger began his career as a field engineer with his family’s business Granger Construction Company, where he eventually served as its president for five years. The company grew significantly during his tenure there. In 1997, he established Granger Group to pursue his vision of achieving an extraordinary level of excellence in delivering the built environment. In its first 24 years, the real estate investment and development company established many essential business and community partnerships, leading to over $5 billion worth of successful developments in Michigan and throughout the U.S. Granger Group provides investment, financing, development, design/build, asset management and property management services. EDUCATION: University of Colorado (B), Harvard Business School BEST ADVICE: Persistence is key to any successful outcome TRAVEL DESTINATION: Aspen, Colorado FAVORITE GR ATTRACTION: Amway Grand BUCKET LIST: Heli-ski with four generations when I am 100
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Influencing business. Inspiring compassion.
Congratulations to our CEO, Mina Breuker, on being named one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Top 200 Business Leaders. Her warmth, compassion, and intelligence are a tremendous asset to those she serves and those who serve along with her.
™
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REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT
ROBERT GROOTERS
President Robert Grooters Development Company, Grand Rapids
Robert “Bob” Grooters was born and raised in Grand Rapids. After beginning his career working for a regional grocery distributor, he became involved in an industrial metal salvage operation, where he said he began to realize the “tremendous need” for industrial space in the West Michigan market. He visualized assisting West Michigan businesses by providing “cost-effective” industrial and office space at highly visible locations. Robert Grooters Development Company is a developer of industrial and manufacturing buildings in the region and has created numerous business parks in West Michigan. The company now owns nearly 2 million square feet of space. Through management, leasing, expansion and more, the Grooters team has helped hundreds of large and small companies. Grooters and his wife Sharie have been married for 58 years. They have two children and five grandchildren.
DIEDRA MITCHELL
President, CEO Waséyabek Development Company
FIRST JOB: A&P Foods, Spartan Stores TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Developing River House, the tallest building in Grand Rapids, and Bridgewater Place, the fourth-tallest building in Grand Rapids BOARDS: Seidman College of Business Dean's Advisory Board, Gilmore Car Museum board of trustees DOWNTIME: Boat trips, classic car shows, golfing FAVORITE CHARITY: Mental Health Foundation
SCOTT WIERDA
Managing partner CWD Real Estate Investment, Grand Rapids
Scott Wierda has more than 27 years of commercial real estate, development and brokerage experience. He also is co-owner and founder of Jade Pig Ventures, a Grand Rapids-based full service commercial real estate investment and development firm. Established in 1995, the company’s portfolio includes grocery-anchored shopping centers, mixed-use centers, single-tenant retail, restaurants and office users, as well as medical office buildings. Previously, Wierda was vice president of sales for S.J. Wisinski & Co. He specialized in retail and office sales and leasing throughout West Michigan. As a guest speaker, Wierda has addressed public/ private partnerships at the City Manager’s Consortium as well as mixed-use and public/private partnerships at the International Council of Shopping Centers-West Michigan Round Table. He is vice chair of the Michigan State Housing Authority and also serves on the boards of the Downtown Improvement District and Grand Valley State University Foundation.
Deidra Mitchell is president and CEO of Waséyabek Development Company, a 100% tribally owned holding company that manages the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi’s nongaming economic development activities. Waséyabek’s portfolio of nongaming companies — which has deployed over $50 million into the Michigan economy and its tribe of about 1,500 members in the past four years — is mainly made up of commercial real estate; manufacturing research, development and engineering, including for the military; precision manufacturing; and business consulting for the state of Michigan and the federal government. In 2020, Waséyabek was part of a group that purchased McKay Tower in downtown Grand Rapids from Steadfast Property Holdings for $17.5 million. Shortly thereafter, it acquired Muskegon-based Re-source Industries, which makes a wide variety of parts for ATVs, autos, snowmobiles, archery bows and other products. WDC and its subsidiaries have grown dramatically in the last 36 months under Mitchell’s leadership. EDUCATION: Kent State University (B) HOBBIES: Hiking, mosaic art, traveling, pets, fishing, writing, reading, and spending time with family and friends
MARY ANNE WISINSKI-ROSELY
Principal, office adviser NAI Wisinski of West Michigan, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Hope College (B) FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I played college golf and a lot of competitive golf while in my 20s and 30s. I won two club championships at two different courses/clubs and I still have a course record when I shot 64 at a club in Pennsylvania. BUCKET LIST: An off-road driving adventure on the Baja Peninsula
Mary Anne Wisinski-Rosely has been with NAI Wisinski of West Michigan since 1995, specializing in the sale and leasing of office properties. In addition to her real estate activities, Wisinski-Rosely has served as board president for the Commercial Alliance of Realtors and is extensively involved with many nonprofit organizations. Her professional certifications include SIOR and CCIM. NAI Wisinski of West Michigan is headquartered in Grand Rapids and maintains a second location in Kalamazoo. It provides all facets of commercial real estate services, including brokerage and property management, throughout the entire West Michigan region. Through its relationship with NAI Global, the firm has access to over 375 NAI affiliate offices throughout the world. EDUCATION: Saint Mary’s College - Notre Dame (B) BEST ADVICE: No client need is too small. You never know who they know or what they may grow into someday. It is all about the relationships. FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I love to play golf. I have won the Ladies Club Championship at Cascade Hills Country Club 18 times. LOCAL ATTRACTION: Lake Michigan ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: I would tell anyone young to always try to stay positive. You will face some ups and downs, so be sure to celebrate the ups and learn from the downs. Also, communication is so important as a key to any success — personal or professional.
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RETAIL - AUTOMOTIVE
RETAIL
BING GOEI
CEO Eastern Floral, Grand Rapids
At the age of 73, Bing Goei still is creating an impact on the community. He has been the CEO of one of the largest floral companies in the state for 20 years. His business has had multiple locations and continues to provide job opportunities for residents in West Michigan. He is the founder of the Goei Center and has established this space as one of West Michigan's most sought after locations for wedding receptions, business seminars and nonprofits’ fundraising events. He is currently an active board member of the West Michigan Asian American Association and chairperson for the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce. In 2014, he was appointed the first director of the Michigan Office for New Americans by former Gov. Rick Snyder in an effort to attract international talent to grow Michigan's economy.
RICK KEYES
President, CEO Meijer Inc., Walker
COMPANY FOUNDED: 1934 EDUCATION: Ohio Northern University Rudolph H. Raabe College of Pharmacy (B) FIRST JOB: Student intern at a Columbus, Ohio, Meijer pharmacy in 1985 NOTABLE: According to a 2016 article in his alma mater’s alumni journal, Keyes prides himself on keeping his pharmacist license up to date, despite not having practiced as a pharmacist since the 1990s. CURRENT SERVICE: Board treasurer, National Association of Chain Drug Stores Inc. PAST BOARDS: Raabe College of Pharmacy Advisory Board
BOARDS: West Michigan Asian American Association and Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce FAVORITE QUOTE: “It's not what you know or who you know. It is who knows you which creates opportunities.”
HANK MEIJER
Executive chair Meijer Inc., Walker
Hank Meijer is executive chair of Meijer and son of Frederik Meijer. According to his bio from Grand Valley State University, he joined the family business at age 11 as a grocery clerk. After serving as a reporter for a Detroit-area newspaper group, he became editor and, later publisher, of a weekly newspaper in Plymouth. He rejoined Meijer in 1979 as assistant advertising director and has served the company since. He wrote biographies of Sen. Arthur Vandenberg and of his grandfather, Hendrik Meijer, and is a philanthropist. COMPANY FOUNDED: 1934 EDUCATION: University of Michigan (B) FIRST JOB: Meijer grocery clerk NOTABLE: With his brother, Doug Meijer, Hank Meijer was ranked No. 224 on the 2019 Forbes World Billionaires list and No. 68 on the Forbes 400 ranking of the wealthiest Americans. BOARDS: In addition to his role as a Hauenstein Center Associate at Grand Valley State University, Meijer serves on the boards of Business Leaders for Michigan, The Henry Ford, The Kettering Foundation, The National Constitution Center, Grand Valley University Foundation, Ford Presidential Foundation and the Food Marketing Institute.
Rick Keyes became the seventh president in Meijer’s history in 2015 and, a year later, added the title of CEO — one of the only nonrelative CEOs in the family-owned retailer’s history. Previously, Keyes was EVP of supply chain and manufacturing, moving from Ohio to Grand Rapids to fill the role in 2006. Keyes has worked for Meijer for three decades and has presided over charitable efforts and led the charge to open a new urban-concept store, the Bridge Street Market in Grand Rapids. Meijer has more than 240 supercenters in six Midwest states and employs about 70,000 people.
CHRIS BAKER
Owner, president Betten Baker Auto Group, Muskegon
Chris Baker is serious about investing in Michigan. Betten Baker has been in business for 38 years, but the company really hit a growth spurt over the past four, expanding further into West Michigan. As of January 2021, Betten Baker Automotive Group had grown to 21 dealerships in western and mid-Michigan after adding a location in Hudsonville. The company had 12 dealerships in 2016. The company set a record growth level in 2018 by adding eight dealerships. Through all of these acquisitions, Baker has maintained embracing local communities by retaining the staff of each dealership with the company acquired. Betten Baker has dealerships in Allegan, Alma, Cadillac, Grandville, Hudsonville, Ithaca, Ludington, Midland, South Haven, Twin Lake, two in Big Rapids and Lowell, three in Coopersville, and four in Muskegon. EMPLOYEES: Approximately 600 BRANDS: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, GMC, Jeep and RAM
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RETAIL - AUTOMOTIVE
JOHN LEESE
President, owner Harvey Automotive, Grand Rapids
When founded by John M. Leese’s father-in-law Harvey Duthler, Leese said it was unimaginable then that in 2021 Harvey Cadillac would be celebrating its 55th anniversary and have recently completed a third reincarnation of its luxury dealership. Harvey Lexus, founded in 1990, is currently undergoing a complete dealership reimagination to be revealed in spring 2022.The group’s newest entity, Harvey Auto Outlet, offers pre-owned vehicles of all makes and models to clients as a more affordable alternative to the two luxury brands. Harvey’s service options feature full-service departments and paint and collision work for all brands, makes and models. “We’ve been a local family owned and operated group since 1966 and our community is very important to us. We’re pleased to continue our community support now and in the future. We’re not just in the transportation business, we’re in the people business,” Leese said. “It’s our philosophy to treat people as guests in our home. We invite everyone to experience our amazing dealerships.”
SPORTS
DIANE MAHER
President, COO DP Fox Ventures & Fox Motor Group, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Ferris State University (B) BOARDS: Our Daily Bread Ministries, West Michigan Policy Forum and Mercantile Bank of Michigan FIRST JOB: Serving up cones at an ice cream shop and picking blueberries HOBBIES: Watching Michigan State football and basketball games
EDUCATION: Northwood University (B) HOMETOWN: Grand Rapids HIGH SCHOOL: Forest Hills Northern High School, class of 1977 BOARDS: Grand Rapids New Car Dealers Association, West Michigan Cadillac Dealers Advertising Association
JOE CHAMBERLIN
CEO West Michigan Whitecaps
Joe Chamberlin was 9 years old when his father, Lew, and Denny Baxter partnered in 1994 to bring the West Michigan Whitecaps to Grand Rapids. In 2019, he took over as CEO for the ballclub, which is the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. After graduating with a master’s degree from MSU, he began working at Ally Financial, a Detroit-based digital financial services company. Four years later, Chamberlin became the director of finance for the Whitecaps. He also was responsible for the team’s HR department. Prior to his work with the Whitecaps and Ally, Chamberlin was an analyst for the Michigan Public Health Institute. As Whitecaps CEO, he is responsible for the team’s strategic direction. Recently, Chamberlin was a part of the decision-making process when a group of investors, led by the West Michigan Whitecaps, purchased Wuerfel Park in Traverse City and started the new Traverse City Pit Spitters baseball team. He also had a hand in securing a 2021 naming rights deal with Lake Michigan Credit Union for the Whitecaps’ home field, now called LMCU Ballpark.
As the leader of two companies that are involved in a variety of industries, including real estate, automotive, transportation, fashion, sports, powersports and entertainment, Diane Maher has been very impactful in the Midwest. Under her leadership, Fox Motor Group has made many acquisitions and opened dealerships since 2000, when she became the CFO and COO. At the end of 2019, the company merged its Chicago powersports operations into a new entity called WC Fox Motorsports. This combined entity operates Harley-Davidson and other motorcycle franchises in 18 locations throughout Chicagoland and Milwaukee. This group is the largest Harley-Davidson dealer group in the United States. Fox Motors also acquired K&M Dodge RAM and Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler Jeep in 2019, bringing the Fox Motors family to 48 automotive and powersports brands in 52 locations that can be found in Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin.
TIM GORTSEMA
President Grand Rapids Griffins, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: College of Wooster (B), Michigan State University (M) BOARDS: Whitecaps Community Foundation, Lake Michigan Academy
A member of the Grand Rapids Griffins’ original 1995 staff, Tim Gortsema began his career with DP Fox Sports & Entertainment as director of finance and administration before being named vice president in 1997. In February 2007, he was promoted to senior vice president of business operations, becoming just the second person to direct the Griffins’ front office, and he was named president of the franchise in June 2015. Now in his 26th season with the club, Gortsema oversees all business-related activities for the Griffins. Under his watch, the Griffins have surpassed 7,900 in average attendance in each of the last five seasons. EDUCATION: Hope College (B), Western Michigan University (M) FIRST JOB: Washing cars at Tuff-Kote Dinol FAVORITE QUOTE: “Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant." Robert Louis Stevenson FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I still own and drive my first car — a 1972 VW Bug with big tires, tinted windows and a sunroof. WHO SHOULD PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — although he will need to drop 4 inches of height and 70 pounds of raw muscle mass. Other than that, and the massive difference in bank accounts, we are pretty much the same person.
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NEVER STOP ARRIVING Congratulations to our President & Owner John M. Leese on his recognition among the 2021 Grand Rapids Business Journal's Grand Rapids 200! And thank you to our valued clients for many years of choosing Harvey Automotive for their sales, service and collision repair needs. Family Owned & Operated Since 1966
HARVEY AUTOMOTIVE
CADILLAC LEXUS HARVEY AUTO OUTLET 2600 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI
HarveyAutomotive.com
your vision. your values. your building.
OUR FOCUS. We listen, we engage and we deliver. The result is a distinctive construction experience. Contact us today at www.erhardtcc.com or (616) 676-1222.
Congratulations to Ben Wickstrom, P.E., President & CEO of Erhardt Construction, on being named to the Grand Rapids 200 list!
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SPORTS
MIKE GUSWILER
President West Michigan Sports Commission, Rockford
TECHNOLOGY
Mike Guswiler has spent over 25 years in the hospitality industry, working for Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Hotels and other private and nonprofit organizations geared toward economic impact through tourism. Guswiler was named president of the West Michigan Sports Commission in June 2007 and works to promote sports tourism and secure sports-related business for economic benefit and quality of life in the region. The West Michigan Sports Commission has worked to secure or host hundreds of sports events in the area that contribute millions of dollars to the economy. Guswiler is a graduate of Leadership Grand Rapids (2006) and Leadership West Michigan (2008). He resides in Rockford with his wife, Julie. They have four children.
STEVEN JBARA
Owner Grand Rapids Gold, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Trine University (B, B) FIRST JOB: Grounds crew at a local little league COVID STORY: For the team, it’s been tough not seeing fans for almost a year and a half and having our affiliation change to Denver. We’re excited to get back to normal and welcome everyone back to the organization again. We become a stronger team for it. LESSON LEARNED: “No” is just a word. I was told no over 300 times for my first capital raise. HIDDEN TALENT: I acquired my pilot’s license and love to go flying. TRAVEL DESTINATION: I love going back and forth to New York City. It’s a nice change of pace for three or four days, then I’m ready to retreat back to good old Michigan.
EDUCATION: Central Michigan University (B) FIRST JOB: Dock porter on Mackinac Island BOARDS: Task Force on Women in Sports, West Michigan Miracle League board; formerly National Association of Sports Commissions, Transplant Games of America board FAVORITE TV SHOW: “The Office” TRAVEL DESTINATION: Skiing the mountains of Colorado, Utah and Idaho TOUGHEST CHALLENGE FACED: Having the fortitude to continue to work the long hours and find learning opportunities to gain new skill sets, all the while gaining courage to become a change agent.
MEREDITH BRONK
President, CEO Open Systems Technologies, Grand Rapids
Meredith Bronk has been with Open Systems Technologies since 1998. She started her career in accounting, then transitioned to project management, recruiting and human resources. She joined OST as a project manager and was promoted to COO before being named president and CEO, leading the company’s 250-plus employees. Bronk serves on several boards, including the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, United Bank of Michigan, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids and SecurAlarm Systems.
Steve Jbara is president and founder of the Grand Rapids Gold, the Denver Nuggets’ affiliate NBA G League team. Jbara has been able to raise metrics for the front office to top 5 in the league in sponsorship revenue and gate receipts, and No. 1 in team gear/branded items. The team recently underwent a brand and affiliation change with the Denver Nuggets, renaming the Grand Rapids Drive into the Gold. Jbara also is the chief strategy officer for WaitTime, a Detroit-based startup that has developed a crowd intelligence software platform for sports venues, and at Air Co, a CO2 technology company based in Brooklyn. In 2019, Jbara opened his own advertising agency called Atomic Honey.
CARL ERICKSON
EDUCATION: Alma College (B), University of Notre Dame (M) FAMILY: Married with three daughters FIRST JOB: In high school, I worked in the athletic director’s office, typing up contracts for umpires and officials, coordinating busing and doing other clerical activities. LESSON LEARNED: With the retirement of our founding CEO, I learned it wasn’t necessary for me to fill his shoes but instead to leverage my strengths and bring people around me to complement those skills. FAVORITE BOOK: I always go back to Simon Sinek, and I liked “How Will You Measure Your Life?” by Clayton Christensen. HOW YOU SPEND YOUR DOWNTIME: Relaxing on the lake with family. When not outside, I like to cook big family meals on the weekends. Downtime for me is about connecting with others. FAVORITE GR ATTRACTION: Frederik Meijer Gardens and Cannonsburg Ski Area
Founder, chairman Atomic Object
Some of the best advice Carl Erickson said he received was from his grandfather while working on a wood project. His grandfather said, “Anything worth doing is worth doing well.” Erickson has taken that advice and allowed it to be a guiding light in his professional career. Erickson and a former student of his from Grand Valley State University started Atomic Object, a software design development consultancy, in 2001, after his dot-com startup company faltered due to an inability to get second-round funding. Twenty years later, Atomic Object is a thriving business that has other offices in Ann Arbor and Chicago. With his decades of experience in startups and knowing the significance of funding, Erickson is assisting fellow entrepreneurs by being an early-stage investor. He helps build companies through access to capital. Erickson is the managing director for Tappan Hill Ventures and he serves on the boards of Legacy Trust, AdAdapted and Grand Angels. EDUCATION: Purdue University (B), Michigan State University (M) FIRST JOB: Delivering the Penny Saver newspaper LESSON LEARNED: You’re rarely qualified or really ready for your next job. Take it anyway. FAVORITE BOOK: It’s a tossup between the Book of John and the Lord of the Rings FAVORITE CHARITY: Grand Rapids HQ, a homeless and runaway youth drop-in center
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TECHNOLOGY
MARK JOHNSON
Co-founder, managing partner Michigan Software Labs, Ada
TRAVEL & TOURISM
Mark Johnson is a co-founder and managing partner at Michigan Software Labs. He is a frequent contributor to Forbes on topics such as technology, culture and business. His company works with Fortune 500 clients and emerging companies to develop custom software. The team was ranked No. 2 in the world out of 9,372 firms for android app development and was named to both the Inc. and Fortune Best Places to Work in the Country lists. Johnson currently serves on the boards of nonprofits Holland Home and PrepNet Virtual Academy.
NATE KOETJE CEO Feyen Zylstra
EDUCATION: Hope College (B), Cornerstone University (M) FIRST JOB: Bagger at D&W INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “True character is shown in times of adversity.” — Martin Luther King Jr. COVID EXPERIENCE: Invest in your team and your technology HOBBIES: Tennis and golf SPEND YOUR DOWNTIME: My wife and I enjoy spending time with our four daughters. We play princess and bake cakes FAVORITE CHARITY: Rotary (supports international aid), Alpha Women’s Center (supports local new moms) ADVICE TO AN 18-YEAR-OLD: You should learn how to write code. Even if you don't want to be a programmer someday, it will help you in life
GEORGE AQUINO
Vice President, Managing Director AHC+Hospitality
Over the course of his nearly 30-year career at AHC+Hospitality, George Aquino has taken on numerous roles at the Grand Rapids-based hotel company, which manages five local hotel properties and their respective restaurants within the Hotel District, a hotel in Detroit, a restaurant in Ann Arbor, two hotels in The Villages, Florida, and Peter Island Resort and Spa in the British Virgin Islands. The Filipino native began his career at AHC+Hospitality in 1992 as the assistant director of food and beverage for Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. Then he headed to the Caribbean, where he served as director of food and beverage, and later the general manager at Peter Island Resort. In 1996, Aquino returned to the Grand Rapids area, where he became the corporate director of operations at the Amway Grand. Before resuming duties here, he completed the executive management program at Cornell University and took cooking classes at Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School, now the Institute of Culinary Education. Now, Aquino and AHC+Hospitality are looking to grow the hotel company by building a three-story, 37,000-square-foot, 24-room hotel in the Village of Ada called The Ada House.
Nate Koetje’s primary focus is setting the vision and strategy to position FZ for long-term profitable growth while keeping the company focused on having a positive impact on the lives of its employees, customers and community stakeholders. In 2008, he began serving as FZ’s chief operating officer and transitioned into the role of CEO in 2013. This experience, combined with his ability to listen and learn from those around him, has allowed him to develop a unique leadership point of view. As CEO, Koetje has led the expansion of FZ’s electrical and industrial technology solution offerings. His community involvement has included a variety of nonprofit, business and industry engagements. He is currently a member of the West Michigan CEO Council. EDUCATION: Grand Valley State University (B), University of Michigan (M), GVSU (M) FIRST JOB: At age 16 I went to work for a local residential builder. Showing up in shorts, a T-shirt and gym shoes with no tools and no idea what I was going to be doing, I was promptly sent home with a list of tools to buy and told to “come back when I was ready to work.” I showed up the next day ready to work and worked for the same builder for the next five years. It turned out to be one of most impactful experiences of my professional life.
PETER BEUKEMA
CEO, partner Suburban Inns, Hudsonville
EDUCATION: University of Iowa, Cornell University and Institute of Culinary Education
Peter Beukema leads Suburban Inns, a family-owned and -operated hotel and restaurant management and development company founded more than 40 years ago. He serves on the board and various committees of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Owners Association and is a part of the IHG Rewards Club Committee and the Emerging Leaders Network. Beukema also is on the Holland SmartZone Board and the boards of the American Hotel Lodging Accusation and the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association. In October 2018, he was named to the Business Journal’s 2018 class of 40 Under 40 Business Leaders. EDUCATION: Northwood University, West Palm Beach, Florida (B) FIRST JOB: My first job outside of the family business was a dishwasher position for Galley Restaurant in St. Ignace. INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “If someone offers you an amazing opportunity, and you are not sure you can do it, say yes, then learn how to do it later.” Sir Richard Branson TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The transition from first generation to second generation in the family business and keeping everything together. In the end, we must all stay family. Too often, families and great companies fall apart because of lack of planning and communication. This needs to start early on, not at retirement. HIDDEN TALENT: I have my pilot’s license.
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TRAVEL & TOURISM
TORY RICHARDSON
President, CEO Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority
Although Tory Richardson began leading the Ford Airport in September 2019, he took on the executive leadership role with almost three decades of aviation experience. He served as the executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority for the previous seven years. Prior to his time in Columbus, Richardson served as the executive director of airports for Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority in Indiana for more than eight years. He also was the executive director of Rapid City Regional Airport in Rapid City, South Dakota, and an airport operations officer at the Dubuque Regional Airport in Iowa. Despite his lengthy resume, Richardson said, right now, the COVID-19 pandemic has been his biggest challenge yet. To adjust to the circumstances, he said the airport authority was forced to downsize the airport while rebuilding trust with the flying public. In its efforts to rebuild trust, Richardson led the airport in becoming the first airport in the country to test a new autonomous robot that disinfects by using ultraviolet technology to ensure the health and safety of its passengers and guests.
LIVING LEGENDS
DOUG SMALL
President, CEO Experience Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Dubuque (B) HOBBIES: I love spending time outdoors and with my family, whether it’s biking, walking, running, skiing or boating
RICHARD WINN President AHC+Hospitality, Grand Rapids
Richard Winn has held his current position for over six years, beginning with the company in 1997 as Amway Grand general manager and then as vice president and managing director. In the past five years, the AHC portfolio has grown from one hotel — the Amway Grand — to seven. The company also owns the JW Marriott Grand Rapids, Courtyard Grand Rapids Downtown and the AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown, as well as manages the Hyatt Place Grand Rapids/Downtown, Peter Island Resort & Spa in the British Virgin Islands and The Waterfront Inn in Florida. Winn has experience growing a chain of hotels in his previous job as CFO of Adam’s Mark Hotels in St. Louis, where he started by helping open a 900-room flagship hotel. His community involvement includes work with Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority, Grand Rapids DDA, Experience Grand Rapids, and the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association.
Doug Small is president and CEO for Experience Grand Rapids, the region’s convention and visitors bureau. Small began his tenure with the organization in September 2008. He has 39 years of experience in the hospitality, tourism and destination marketing industries, with emphasis on marketing and management for several large-to-midsize destination marketing organizations throughout the country. Previous to his current role in Grand Rapids, Small served as senior vice president for VISIT DENVER. Prior to Denver, Small served as president of the Syracuse (New York) Convention Bureau and in senior leadership sales and marketing capacities for destination marketing organizations in Palm Springs, California, and Dayton, Ohio, as well as management positions in the lodging industry. Small’s community and industry involvement includes serving on the board of directors for the U.S. Travel Association, West Michigan Sports Commission, the Regional Air Alliance of West Michigan, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, Michigan Society of Association Executives and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. EDUCATION: Siena Heights College (B) FEW PEOPLE KNOW: I have 13 siblings and in August my parents were married 75 years.
LEW CHAMBERLIN
Founder, chair Whitecaps Professional Baseball Corp., Comstock Park
EDUCATION: Western Michigan University (B) BEST ADVICE: Never give up on anything that is important to you ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD: Find out what really inspires you and go after it. Have patience, be persistent and be willing to put in the work to achieve it. PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE: Richard Gere. I have been told I look somewhat like him.
Along with his partner, Denny Baxter, Lew Chamberlin was instrumental in bringing the Whitecaps to West Michigan. He began the process in 1986 and didn’t rest until the team’s inception in 1994. The Whitecaps have set the all-time Class A attendance record three times and have drawn over 10 million fans to what is now LMCU Ballpark over the past 25-plus years. Chamberlin serves on the board of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and is one of the seven members of the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority, a quasi-public board that owns Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place Convention Center. He is the former president of the Grand Rapids Art Museum board of trustees and a past board member of Experience Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. More recently, Chamberlin serves as co-chair of the First Steps Kent Commission, which is working to build a comprehensive support system for Kent County children from birth to age 5. EDUCATION: Allegheny College (B), University of Toledo College of Law (JD) FIRST JOB: General laborer at John Ball Park Zoo BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED: Never stop trying. HIDDEN TALENT: I’m ambidextrous FAVORITE BOOK: “The Sunlight Dialogues” by John Gardner
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LIVING LEGENDS
DAVID FREY
Chairman, CEO Union Bancorp Inc., Grand Rapids
A fourth-generation Grand Rapidian, David Frey began his banking career in 1971 with Manufacturers Hanover Corporation in New York. In 1974, he returned to Grand Rapids to join Union Bank & Trust Co. founded by his grandfather in 1918. He subsequently served as president and then chairman of Union Bank & Trust Company and Union Bancorp Inc., its parent. Union Bancorp merged with NBD Bancorp in 1986. Frey was the officer in charge of NBD Bank – West Michigan and its successor financial institutions, culminating in a merger with JPMorgan Chase in 2004. He is a civic leader in the metropolitan Grand Rapids area. He served as co-chair of Grand Action, which spearheaded the design, funding and construction of the Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place Convention Center, Meijer Civic Theatre historic renovation and the Downtown Market. In 1993, he served as chairman of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation and chairman of The Right Place in 2001. He currently serves as vice chair of Grand Action 2.0.
JIM KEANE
President, CEO Steelcase Inc., Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: University of Illinois (B), Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University (M) BOARDS: Rockwell Automation, IDEO, Grand Valley University Foundation, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, and the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association FIRST JOBS: Golf caddy and elevator operator FAVORITE GR ATTRACTION: Meijer Gardens
EDUCATION: University of North Carolina (B, JD) FIRST JOB: Houseboy at private trout fishing club TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Corporate turnaround in a poor economy, dismal stock market and interest rates at a generational high level HIDDEN TALENT: Sang in the men's glee club in high school FAVORITE BOOK: "Theodore Rex" by Edmund Morris
FRED KELLER
Founder, chair Cascade Engineering, Grand Rapids
Fred Keller said he believes business has the opportunity to complement its efforts on financial performance with works in social and environmental arenas. That was the credence he harbored some 47 years ago when he began molding plastic parts with six employees in a 10,000-square-foot building. Now, that succinct belief has been manifested in the continuous growth of the company. Cascade Engineering now employs nearly 2,000 people across 13 facilities in six U.S. locations and additional European operations in Budapest, Hungary. The company primarily focuses on designing, engineering and injection molding of large plastic parts. Cascade has nine business units that supply a variety of markets including transportation, recycling/waste management, office furniture, agricultural/industrial containers, polymer compounding and RFID asset management. Keller’s business success has given him a platform where he shares his knowledge and experiences with students at his alma mater. He has been a visiting lecturer at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University since 2002.
For the past 25 years, Jim Keane has been essential in the growth of the $2.6 billion manufacturing company that has been a staple in offices, schools, hospitals and homes since 1912. Under his leadership, Steelcase has evolved into a globally integrated enterprise offering furniture, architectural and technological solutions to leading organizations around the world. Keane has taken on numerous positions since joining the company in 1997, including leading research and development, corporate strategy, IT and finance. He became the president of Steelcase Group in 2006, chief operating officer in 2012 and was named president and CEO of Steelcase in 2014. He will retire from the company in January 2022. Prior to joining Steelcase, Keane was the senior engagement manager at McKinsey & Company, a management consulting firm, for five years. He has also held positions at Peat Marwick and Motorola Inc.
BIRGIT KLOHS
Former president, CEO The Right Place Inc., Grand Rapids
EDUCATION: Cornell University (B), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (M) HIDDEN TALENT: Pastry chef FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Rural Germany LESSON LEARNED: When bad things happen, learn from it but not let it define your future.
Birgit Klohs led the regional economic development organization for 33 years. She collaborated with local, state and national organizations to help address issues related to economic development. Throughout her three decades of leadership, the organization assisted thousands of West Michigan companies to invest more than $5 billion and create 45,800 new jobs throughout the region. Klohs also led The Right Place’s international business development strategy. The German native, both independently and in collaboration with the state of Michigan and the governor’s office, conducted foreign direct investment missions to Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Klohs spread her wisdom on national and international economic development issues by traveling and speaking to audiences in France, England, Germany, Sweden, China, Australia and Israel. She is involved in many local and statewide boards because she is a strong believer that a community’s quality of life is as important as its quality of commerce. EDUCATION: Western Michigan University (B) LESSON LEARNED: Your integrity is your greatest asset. Never let it be compromised. HOBBIES: Gardening, cooking, traveling, reading and golfing. FAVORITE CHARITY: Van Andel Research Institute
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BDO CONGRATULATES
KATIE FERRIS for being recognized for the third year in a row as a Grand Rapids Top 200. BDO provides assurance, tax, and advisory services to a wide range of publicly traded and privately held companies. We offer a sophisticated array of services, as well as the resources and capabilities of our global organization, combined with the personal attention of experienced professionals.
Katie Ferris, West Michigan Tax Office Managing Partner 616-802-3386 / kferris@bdo.com BDO USA, LLP, 200 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Accountants and Advisors
www.bdo.com
© 2021 BDO USA, LLP. All rights reserved.
Our Plan, Your Land Build one of our floor plans on your property.* Starting as low as $225,000.**
*Within a 20 Mile Radius of Grand Rapids **Prices are subject your property.
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BY THE NUMBERS Of the individuals who make up the Grand Rapids 200 for 2021, most hold a college degree, worked their way up through the ranks and wouldn’t dream of quitting.
318
DEGREES BY 189 INDIVIDUALS Undergraduate degrees (190) Graduate degrees (97) Ph.D. (12) J.D. (16) M.D. (3)
EDUCATION SITUATION
The Grand Rapids 200 is a highly educated group with several leaders holding more than one degree. The overall coterie, made up of 189 people who earned at least a bachelor’s degree, holds a collective 318 diplomas.
6.0 8.0
EARNED THEIR PH.D.
%
The top school for Ph.D. students, at 16.7%, was the University of Michigan.
73% 26.5% 0.5% MEN
WOMEN
NON-BINARY
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL ALMA MATERS
The top five schools of bachelor’s degree holders are listed below. Of those, you’ll see most wearing green and white.
9.5%
10.6%
7.9%
Calvin University
125
University of Michigan
6.2%
Harvard University
5.2%
Western Michigan University
5.2%
Northwestern University
5.2%
Michigan State University
University of Michigan
EARNED THEIR J.D.
The top school for attorneys, at 31.3%, was Wayne State University.
BUSINESS LEADERS
Men make up just under three-quarters of the 200 individuals cited (146 men, 53 women, 1 non-binary person).
6.3%
Hope College
6.9%
Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University
69
Michigan State University
11.3%
8.2%
GRADUATE SCHOOL ALMA MATERS
West Michigan/ Michigan
Many graduate school attendees chose to continue their education in Michigan, but not all of them.
City of Grand Rapids
6 Out of State
HEADQUARTERS LOCATION
Accounting for every business, with some listed multiple times, The Grand Rapids 200 work mostly within the city.
NOT FOR EVERYBODY
While most of The Grand Rapids 200 graduated from college, 11 members chose the entrepreneurial or military route out of high school before turning to the corporate world. 96 THE GRAND RAPIDS 200
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Aviation, Adoration,
Appreciation.
Congratulations to our president and CEO, Tory Richardson, awarded one of Grand Rapids Top 200 Business Leaders of 2021. Your dedication and decades of aviation experience has provided Gerald R. Ford International Airport with guidance and know-how to confidently grow right here in West Michigan.
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Like no other in West Michigan. “From $38 million to nearly $3 billion in revenue since 2013, Acrisure is redefining what it means to be “limitless.” We proudly call downtown Grand Rapids home as we continue our Fintech-driven journey!” -Greg Williams, CEO & President of Acrisure, Member of Grand Rapids Top 200
Acrisure is pioneering the intelligence-driven distribution of financial services, right in the heart of Grand Rapids. Find your opportunity for “limitless” growth: www.acrisure.com/careers
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